Device of a vehicle for restoring one or more functions or available choices for a mobile communication device

ABSTRACT

This provides for controlling mobile device functions and features. For example, it limits or disables the use of some of mobile device features which could cause distraction to the user, when the user is engaged in another activity. In an example, it enables other mobile device features based on occurrence of events related to the user or environment. Another example addresses controlling the mobile device features, such as SMS, while the user is in a vehicle or driving. Another example restricts the ability of the driver of a vehicle to text, while the vehicle is in motion, by automatically disabling the texting ability of mobile device within and around the perimeter of the driver&#39;s seat. Other variations, examples, improvements, detection mechanisms, models, techniques, calculations, verification mechanisms, and features are also described in details.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of an earlier U.S. application Ser.No. 12/610,319, filed on 31 Oct. 2009, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,315,617 bythe same inventors and same assignee. This application claims benefit ofthe priority date of the U.S. application Ser. No. 12/610,319. Thisapplication incorporates by reference the entire teaching andspecification of the U.S. application Ser. No. 12/610,319.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Modern mobile devices provide many functionalities including telephony(e.g., cellular phone, VOIP), PDA (personal digital assistance) (e.g.,contact/address list, games, photos), network connectivity (e.g.,Internet web browser, email, short message service (SMS),mapping/location services). Generally, the mobile device user explicitlycontrols which applications/functionalities to use at a given moment.For example, the user might use SMS services (or texting) at anylocation where there might be network connectivity. Given that thenetwork connectivity has become more prevalent, the mobile device userstend to use the functionality of mobile devices in more places andsituations.

An example of these mobile device functionalities is the text messaging(or texting) which is a communication method between mobile devices overcellular networks wherein short written messages are exchanged betweenmobile telephone devices, using a communication service standardcommonly known as SMS. Given the gateways between the IP networks andtelephone networks, one or more SMS users may be on one or both types ofnetworks. This messaging service has been extended to MultimediaMessaging Service (MMS) to include multimedia messages, e.g., containingvideo, still image, and sound.

This method of communication and its underlying technology has grown tosuch a great level that it has become one of the most widely used formof mobile communication in the world, wherein almost every mobile phoneservice provider has made it available to its users as part of itsservice, covering several billions active users, spanning almost everyage group.

The typical mobile device (shown schematically in FIG. 6) includes anaudio interface (612) block connected to speaker unit (610) andmicrophone (611) on one side, and digital signal processor (DSP) block(613) on the other side. Audio interface block usually includes adigital-to-analog converter (DAC), being coupled to a speaker, and ananalog-to-digital converter (ADC), being coupled to microphone, todigitize the audio voice and to send the digitized voice to DSP forfurther processing. DSP, which is considered processing heart of themobile telephone system, communicates with audio interface block and RFinterface block (616), and digitally performs such signal processingfunctions as speech coding/decoding, error detection/correction, channelcoding/decoding, signal equalization, and demodulation, as is well-knownto those skilled in the art.

Typically, DSP performs under the control of microprocessor/controller(615), and may further be coupled to an application specific integratedcircuit (ASIC) block (614), where it can help with the operation of DSPin some application specific functions in the background, as known tothose skilled in the art. RF interface block which is coupled to DSP,receives digitally processed base band signal from DSP, and it forexample performs quadrature (complex) modulation on the digital baseband signal, converts the modulated digital signal to analog form, usingdigital-to-analog converter, and sends the modulated analog signal totransmitter block (618) for further frequency up conversion toradiofrequency (RF), for wireless transmission through poweramplification block (621) and antenna (622).

In the receiving side of mobile telephone system, downlink wireless RFsignals are received by the receiver block (619) via the antenna.Receiver block amplifies the received RF signal through an automaticgain control unit, down converts the amplified RF signal to intermediatefrequency (IF) by mixing it with a locally generated reference signal(620), and passes the IF signal on to interface block (616) forquadrature (complex) demodulation, with filtering and analog-to-digitalconversion as is well-known to those skilled in the art.

Digital signal processor (DSP) block receives the digitized IF signalfrom the interface block and performs various signal processingtechniques such as demodulation, equalization, errordetection/correction, and signal detection, and forwards the detectedsignal (i.e. voice) to audio interface block, to be converted to analogvoice, amplitude controlled (i.e. amplified or attenuated) and sent tothe speaker block.

As those skilled in the art recognize, most of the above operation isperformed under the control of microprocessor/controller block (615). Ina typical mobile telephone system, as depicted above,microprocessor/controller block performs such functions as level 2/3protocol, radio services management, man/machine interface, operatingsystem (OS) software, and short message service (SMS). The operations ofboth keyboard and display (617) are under the control of themicroprocessor/controller. Mobile devices also include localmemory/storage (623) used by the processor and/or other components ofthe system.

As is known to those skilled in the art (and from sources such asprinted publications or online technical articles, e.g., WIKIPEDIA® (AnInternet community information web site)), during the text messaging,microprocessor/controller receives alphanumeric information from thekeyboard, uses SMS services software embedded in its memory, convertsthe alphanumeric information into short message format, and typicallysends the generated message to DSP to be processed and sent over thecontrol channel to a short message service center (SMSC), which providesa store-and-forward mechanism to forward the text messages to theintended recipient.

Although this method of communication service has provided unprecedentedlevel of mobile phone subscriber service, it may be desirable tolimit/disable the use of some of mobile device features which couldcause distraction to the user when the user is engaged in anotheractivity. For example, statistics indicate that the likelihood of beinginvolved in a traffic accident, while driving and using a handhelddevice, is four times more than any other situations. One the otherhand, it may be desirable to enable other mobile device features basedon occurrence of events related to the user or environment. For anexample, this invention addresses controlling the mobile devicefeatures, such as SMS, while the user is in a vehicle.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This invention provides for controlling mobile device functions andfeatures. For example, an embodiment of this invention limits ordisables the use of some of mobile device features which could causedistraction to the user when the user is engaged in another activity. Anembodiment of this invention enables other mobile device features basedon occurrence of events related to the user or environment.

An embodiment of this invention addresses controlling the mobile devicefeatures, such as SMS, while the user is in a vehicle.

An embodiment of this invention restricts the ability of the driver of avehicle to text while the vehicle is in motion, by automaticallydisabling the texting ability of mobile device within and aroundperimeter of driver's seat, while the vehicle is in motion.

Other variations, examples, improvements, detection mechanisms, models,techniques, calculations, verification mechanisms, and features are alsodescribed in details.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates several positions of a mobile device within andoutside of a vehicle for an embodiment of this invention.

FIG. 2 illustrates multiple transmitters/receivers/transceivers placed,e.g., on a vehicle, used in an embodiment of this invention.

FIG. 3(a) illustrates locating a mobile device, e.g., in or about avehicle, used in an embodiment of this invention.

FIG. 3(b) illustrates a hypothetical example of calibration and baselinemeasurements of output signal power among localizedtransmitters/transceivers, in an embodiment of this invention.

FIG. 3(c) illustrates locating a mobile device via multipletransmitters/receivers/transceivers, used in an embodiment on thisinvention.

FIG. 3(d) illustrates locating a mobile device via multipletransmitters/receivers/transceivers, used in an embodiment on thisinvention.

FIG. 4 illustrates steps in disabling/modifying a feature of the mobiledevice in an embodiment of this invention.

FIG. 5 illustrates steps in forwarding messages or calls to a mobiledevice in an embodiment of this invention.

FIG. 6 illustrates typical components of a mobile device, known in priorart.

FIGS. 7(a) and 7(b) illustrate a mobile device, a localized unit, and alocal computer/control (e.g., of a vehicle) used in an embodiment ofthis invention.

FIG. 8 illustrates a schematic of communicating a code to a mobiledevice based on, for example, a vehicle's status, in an embodiment ofthis invention.

FIG. 9 illustrates a schematic of communicating a code to a mobiledevice based on, for example, a vehicle's status and the validation of acode from the mobile device, in an embodiment of this invention.

FIG. 10 illustrates a communication path between a localcomputer/control (e.g., in a vehicle), a localized unit, a mobiledevice, and a SMSC, in an embodiment of this invention.

FIG. 11(a)-(d) illustrate interaction between a local device (e.g., in avehicle), a mobile device, and a feature server/entity (e.g., SMSC) inan embodiment of this invention.

FIG. 12 illustrates a typical BLUETOOTH® (A wireless technologyprotocol) networking stack with an application layer.

FIG. 13 illustrates dependencies of various software components andconfigurations in a mobile device.

FIG. 14 illustrates an exemplary system with an Action Controllermodule, used in an embodiment of this invention.

FIG. 15 illustrates exemplary rules input to a Rule Priority andCombination Logic module, used in an embodiment of this invention.

FIG. 16 illustrates exemplary input to a Telephones & Users Location andID Module, used in an embodiment of this invention.

FIG. 17 illustrates exemplary input to a Features Ranges Module, used inan embodiment of this invention.

FIG. 18 illustrates exemplary components/features/functions affected byan Action Controller Module, used in an embodiment of this invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In one embodiment of this invention, as illustrates in FIG. 1, atransceiver (108) is placed on or about the steering wheel (106) of avehicle (100). In one embodiment, the transceiver (108) has a limitedeffective range (102) of few feet. In one embodiment, the effectiverange is about the range of where the driver of the vehicle would belocated/seated (e.g., driver seating on the driver seat (112)). In oneembodiment, the transceiver is located at/about/under the driver sidecontrol panel (104), driver's seat (112), driver's door (117), or driverside mirror (110). In one embodiment, when a mobile device is locatedoutside (120) of vehicle (i.e., sufficiently far (e.g., few feet) fromthe driver side seat (112), or inside vehicle at/near front (122)passenger seat (114), or at/near backside (124) passenger seat (116),the mobile device is out of effective range (102) of the transceiver(108).

In one embodiment, when localized transmitter/transceiver (e.g., 108) isactivated (e.g., by turning on the vehicle (e.g., ignition) and settingthe gear outside of Park position), the localizedtransmitter/transceiver sends a code.

In one embodiment, when the RF signal level received (400) by the mobiledevice from a localized transmitter/transceiver (e.g., 108) is above athreshold signal level power, the mobile device decodes (or processes asin another embodiment) a code sent by the localizedtransmitter/transceiver. In one embodiment, the effective range (e.g.,102) of transmitter/transceiver is set so that within the effectiverange, the received power level by a mobile device (e.g., 126) is abovethe threshold signal power level, while substantially outside theeffective range (e.g., at 120, 122, or 124), the received power level bythe mobile device from the localized transmitter/transceiver (108) islower than the threshold signal level power.

As illustrated by FIG. 4, in one embodiment, after the mobile devicereceives a signal from a localized transmitter/transceiver (e.g., 108),the mobile device decodes (e.g., via a running program or in firmware) acoded sequence or a code sent from the localized transmitter/transceiver(410). In one embodiment, if the received code matches a preconfiguredcode or code sequence, it would indicate that an event has occurred(e.g., the mobile device has entered an effective range of the localizedtransmitter/transceiver). In one embodiment, such event would indicatethat one or more feature or functionality of the mobile device (e.g.,SMS) should be changed (e.g., to become limited or disabled) (e.g.,420). If so, in one embodiment, the feature (e.g., SMS) of the mobiledevice is changed (e.g., disabled) if not already disabled (440).

In one embodiment, the duration of the feature modification is a set(450) to a period of time (e.g., 30 seconds).

In one embodiment, upon occurrence of other events (e.g., an emergencyevent indicated by a signal/input to the mobile device), the disabled orlimited feature of the mobile device is restored. In one embodiment,when user dials an emergency number or the mobile device enters anemergency mode, the disabled or limited feature of the mobile device isrestored.

In one embodiment, when the code received from the localizedtransmitter/transceiver indicates e.g., an enabling event, the mobiledevice terminates the period of feature modification and restores thecorresponding feature/functionality. For example, if the driver sets thevehicle on the Park position, the localized transmitter/transceiversends an enabling code to the mobile device indicating that the feature(e.g., SMS) can be restored. In an embodiment, where a status of vehicle(such as speed) is used to determine the modification of a feature, whenthe vehicle comes to full stop, the limited feature becomes enabledagain (e.g., after a predefined period of time such as 10 seconds),e.g., by sending an enabling code to the mobile device from a localizedtransmitter.

In one embodiment, the configurations and rules are dynamicallyconfigurable via the user interface on the car computer/control, themobile device, or a remote server (e.g., a web server). In oneembodiment, the operational settings (e.g., how often the code istransmitted by the transceivers (e.g., every 15 seconds)) is alsoconfigurable via a control panel (e.g., attached to a localized unit viaa car computer panel, or via the mobile device).

In one embodiment, when the mobile device receives a code indicating anevent to modify (e.g., limit/disable) a feature (e.g., SMS), and thefeature is already modified (440) (e.g., SMS is alreadydisabled/limited, e.g., due to prior code transmission), the remainingtime period for maintaining the feature modification is extended to apredefined time period (e.g., 460). In one embodiment, the extendingtime period is the same as the original time period for featuremodification. In another embodiment, the extending time period isshorter or longer than the original time period for featuremodification. For example, in one embodiment, upon receiving the codefrom the localized transmitter/transceiver, the SMS feature of themobile device is disabled/limited for 30 seconds. If after 25 seconds,similar code is again received by the mobile device, the remaining 5second turns to 30 seconds, in an embodiment for which the original timeperiod is the same as the extending time period for the featuremodification. However, in one embodiment, when the extending time period(e.g., 4 seconds) is shorter than the original (e.g., 30 seconds), theremaining time is extended if the remaining time is less than theextending time period. In this example, the remaining time periodremains as 5 seconds because it is more than 4-second extending timeperiod. In one embodiment, the remaining time is tracked in a variable(memory location). In one embodiment, the expiration time is stored in avariable (memory location). In one embodiment, the remaining time isupdated periodically or the expiration time is checked against thecurrent time (e.g., from local system or synchronized from network viaNTP) periodically to determine when expiration is reached.

In one embodiment, one or both of the original time period and theextending time period for the feature modification are configurable onthe mobile device. In one embodiment, one or both of these time periodsare transmitted to the mobile device via the localizedtransmitter/transceiver. In one embodiment, the mobile device receivesone or both of these time period values from a push (or pull) servicefrom the corresponding telephone carrier or from a server in network orInternet.

In one embodiment, the mobile device is equipped with GPS (GlobalPositioning System) service or receives its (or vehicle's) position fromanother GPS system (e.g., from a GPS service on the vehicle or anemergency service provider on the vehicle). In one embodiment, themobile device or the computer/GPS on the vehicle (periodically oron-demand) determine the locality/jurisdiction/state/country by usingmapping/address/location services (e.g., via Internet or a localdatabase). In one embodiment, a change inlocality/jurisdiction/state/country is identified by comparingsubsequent GPS readings. In one embodiment, upon a change inlocality/jurisdiction/state/country, the original time period and theextending time period for the feature modification corresponding tocurrent locality/jurisdiction/state/country is determined, e.g., byquerying a local database or downloading data from a service fromInternet, and these time values (or other parameters provided by theservice, e.g., speed limits) are used subsequently to modify the mobiledevice feature.

In one embodiment, when and how long to maintain the featuremodification is determined by a set of rules and configuration values,which are executed in a rule-based engine (e.g., in a mobile device,vehicle computer, or a server on a network). In one embodiment, therules are downloaded upon querying by the mobile device or the vehicle'scomputer based on the geography (e.g., location of the vehicle or mobiledevice), type of the vehicle, and/or one or more attributes of thedriver or passenger(s) (e.g., age, occupation, or exemptions).

In one embodiment, when the mobile device (e.g., 126) whose one of itsfeatures is already modified, leaves the effective range of a localizedtransmitter/transceiver (e.g., 108) or does not receive a further codeindicating extension of the feature modification period, the modifiedfeature is restored to previous state when the remaining modificationperiod is over.

In one embodiment, the mobile device keeps monitoring (e.g., 430) for anRF signal from a localized transmitter/transceiver. For example, in oneembodiment, a program/task running on the mobile device periodicallychecks for such signal or is notified by an underlyinghardware/firmware/operating system/RF modules that a signal has beenreceived. In one embodiment, the communication between the localtransceiver and the mobile device is performed through BLUETOOTH® (Awireless technology protocol) (or related) technology. FIG. 12 shows atypical transport stack of BLUETOOTH® (A wireless technology protocol)from physical layer (1202) through Application layer (1250). Inprinciple, a signal monitoring application can be implemented at anylayer or directly use one or more layers in the stack. In oneembodiment, a monitoring application uses OBEX (1224), UDP (1222), orTCP (1220) to communicate with the localized transceiver. For example,in one embodiment, the signal monitoring application opens a port (UDPor TCP) with a predetermined port number for listening for incomingmessages. In one embodiment, the signal monitoring application uses(1262) a lower layer such as RCOMM (1214) or L2CAP (1212) directly tocommunicate with the localized transceiver. In one embodiment, a signalmonitoring program determines the received signal power level fromdrivers or directly from physical layer (or higher layer) (1260). In oneembodiment, the monitoring program runs as a background task. In oneembodiment, the background task runs even when the mobile device is insleep mode, e.g., to conserve battery power (e.g., by turning off thedisplay).

In one embodiment, when the signal monitoring application receives acode from a localized transmitter/transceiver, it modifies or triggersmodification of a mobile device feature/function (e.g., SMS). In oneembodiment, the signal monitoring application is integrated part offunction/feature to be modified (e.g., integrated or a module of SMSapplication). In such an embodiment, a tight integration between thesignal monitoring module and core functionality control enables one tomodify the functionality directly, e.g., via non-public API (ApplicationProgramming Interface) or direct calls. In one embodiment, the signalmonitoring application and the feature/function to be modified are notas tightly integrated. In such an embodiment, there are various methodsthat the feature modification may be achieved. For example, thetriggering application (i.e., the signal monitoring application) callsone or more APIs of the triggered application (i.e., SMS application),to modify the feature. In such an embodiment, the triggered applicationsupports modification of the feature via those APIs. In one embodiment,the triggering application modifies configuration data (1360) used bythe triggered application and/or other underlyingsoftware/firmware/hardware. For example, FIG. 13 illustrates a typicalapplication stack and interdependencies between hardware (1310),operating system (OS) (1320), drivers (1330), interface/implementationlibraries (1340), and applications (1350), as well as configuration data(1360). Depending on the configuration and the nature of the modules,the behavior of the module is affected by available configurations. Someconfigurations are allowed to be modified and some are dynamically usedby their respective modules. In one embodiment, the triggeringapplication modifies a configuration for a lower level module (e.g., adriver 1330) to modify the feature supported by the driver and used byone or more triggered applications at a higher level (1350). In thiscase, if there are multiple applications supporting the feature to bemodified (e.g., several SMS applications on the mobile device) which usea common module (e.g., a driver), the feature may be modified byconfiguring/affecting the common module.

In one embodiment, the triggering application identifies (e.g., byquerying the OS) the applications/processes that provide the feature tobe modified, for example, by using the signatures of those triggeredapplications. In one embodiment, the triggering application terminatesthe identified triggered applications (if they are running), e.g., bysending a command to the OS or using an inter-process messaging. In oneembodiment, the triggering application prevents launching of thetriggered applications via the mobile device user interface, e.g., bytemporary disabling access to the triggered application. In oneembodiment, the triggering application sends messages via aninter-process messaging to affect the behavior of the triggeredapplication and modify a feature supported by the triggered application.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, in one embodiment, multiple localtransmitters/transceivers (e.g., 204, 230, 232, 234, and 236) are placedon a vehicle (200). In one embodiment, one or more of these localtransmitters/transceivers (e.g., 204, 230, 232, and 234) have a shorteffective range (e.g., few feet) (e.g., 202, 231, 233, and 235,respectively). In such an embodiment, if the mobile device is movedaround inside the vehicle, its location may be monitored/tracked, basedon the events related to the mobile device getting in RF range of one ormore of these local transmitters/transceivers. In one embodiment, whenthe mobile device exits the effective range (202) of the localtransmitter/transceiver corresponding to the driver (204), and it enters(e.g., at 222) the effective range (e.g., 231) of another localtransmitter/transceiver (e.g., 230), the mobile device receives a codeindicating, for example, in-range event from localtransmitter/transceiver 230, and the modified feature on the mobiledevice is restored. In such embodiment, instead of driver (at 212)attempting to use a feature (e.g., SMS), the mobile device can be handedto a person on the passenger side (at 214) to perform the function.Similarly, the mobile device (e.g., at 224) can be used by a person onthe back seat (216) to perform the task. In one embodiment, if themobile device is taken outside vehicle (e.g., at 220), the functionalityis restored, e.g., due to the lack of receiving a code from the localtransmitter/transceiver 204 to extend the feature modification period.

In one embodiment, the multiple transmitters/transceivers are positionedso that their effective ranges map the interior of the vehicle where thedriver and passengers might be located (and hence, the potentiallocation of the mobile device(s)). In one embodiment, the power levelsettings of the multiple transmitter/transceivers are adjusted so thattheir effective ranges better map the interior of the vehicle, in orderto make a more accurate determination of the mobile device locationespecially close to the driver seat (212). For example, in oneembodiment, the front transmitters/transceivers (204, 230) are placedclose to mirrors (210 and 218) to reduce overlap between theircorresponding effective ranges. In one embodiment, the backtransmitter/transceivers (232, 234) are placed behind or above the backseat at the left and right sides of the vehicle.

In one embodiment, one or more transmitters/transceivers (e.g., 236) isplaced, e.g., about the center of the vehicle. In one embodiment, such atransmitter is used to calibrate the power level of the othertransmitters/transceivers (e.g., 204, 230, 232, and 234). In anembodiment, the power level output of the localizedtransmitters/transceivers are adjusted based on an RF calibration. This,for example, helps keeping the effective ranges stable by keeping thepower levels stable, when the output power levels of thesetransmitters/transceivers tend to drift over time. In one embodiment,additional transmitters/transceivers (e.g., 236) help better positionthe mobile device.

In one embodiment, a transceiver 236 has a higher effective range thanthe other local transmitters (e.g., 204, 230, 232, and 234). In anembodiment, the mobile device makes the data communication withtransceiver 236, while it determines the received power level signalsfrom transmitters 204, 230, 232, and 234, as well as their uniqueidentifiers. Based on these received power levels, the mobile devicedetermines within which effective range(s) it is located, and the mobiledevice communicates the corresponding identifier(s) to transceiver 236.In one embodiment, transceiver 236 provides the data to a localizedunit, and the localized unit provides a code to be sent to the mobiledevice via transceiver 236. A localized unit is installed on thevehicle, e.g., behind control panel, dashboard, trunk, floor, etc. Inone embodiment, transceiver 236 is wired to the localized unit forsignaling and power. In one embodiment, transceiver 236 is integratedwith the localized unit. In one embodiment, a localized unit uses aprocessor/controller to perform logical and other calculations, controlthe transmitters/transceivers, communicate with the mobile device viatransceiver(s), and receive data/status from vehicle's computer/controlor sensors. FIG. 7 depicts an embodiment of this invention, where thelocalized unit (702) installed near the vehicle's (700) driver sidecontrol panel is integrated with its transceiver. The transceivercommunicates (706) with the mobile device (704) when mobile device is onits effective range. The localized device communicates (710) with thevehicle's computer/control (708) system or sensors.

In one embodiment, as depicted in FIG. 7(b), the mobile device (754) andthe localized unit (752) communicate (756) via their respectivetransceivers (755, 753), and the localized unit receives vehicle status(760) from the local vehicle's computer/control system. In oneembodiment, vehicle's local computer/control share resources with thelocalized unit, i.e., they are integrated in one unit. For example, theprocessor, memory, operating system, display, networking, or othercomponents of the vehicle computer system is used for implementinglocalized unit functionality.

In one embodiment, e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 3(a), multiple localizedtransmitters/transceivers (304, 330, 332, 334, and 336) are placed on avehicle (300), e.g., with effective ranges of more than few feet. In oneembodiment, the effective ranges are set at factory and/or duringinstallation, e.g., during calibration.

In one embodiment, the mobile device location is determined by using thelocalized transmitters/transceivers. In one embodiment, the location ofthe mobile device is determined based on the relative timing of signalfrom the mobile device to the transceivers. In such an embodiment, usingthe radio wave as media, the time resolution is in order of 1 nsec orless, and the transceiver(s) have stable clocks/reference signalgenerator (e.g., with low phase noise). For example, one transceiver(e.g., 336) provides a reference RF signal for the other transceivers(304, 330, 332, 334, and 336) to obtain and compare with signals fromthe mobile device (326).

In an embodiment, the location of the mobile device is determined basedon the relative signal power levels from the localtransmitters/transceivers, measured at the mobile device. In oneembodiment, the power levels are measured at the local transceivers forthe signals from other transceivers and the mobile device. Based on theantenna configurations of the transceivers (and other obstacles), atransmitter's signal power level attenuation is dependent on thedistance to the transmitter. For example, with the geometric expansionof the radiated wave front, the free space attenuation is given byr²·(4π)²/λ², where r is the distance to the transmitter and λ is thewavelength of the radiation.

In one embodiment, the relative power levels measured at the mobiledevice or the local transceivers are used to estimate the relativedistances of the mobile device to the local transmitters/transceivers.For example, assuming the attenuation is inversely proportional to r²,in one embodiment, the ratio of distances of the mobile device to twotransmitters is proportional to the inverse square root of the ratio oftheir corresponding signal power level measurements at the mobiledevice. In one embodiment, once the ratio of distances of thetransmitters from the mobile device is determined (for example, by aprogram on the mobile device or the localized unit), the position of themobile device is determined with respect to the transmitters.

Given that the attenuation has strong dependence on the distance fromthe transmitter, in one embodiment, the distance of the mobile device toeach transmitter is estimated based on the signal power level receivedfrom the transmitters to the mobile device. To help the accuracy of theestimation, in one embodiment, the power level measurement by the mobiledevice is calibrated by placing the mobile device at one or morepredetermined locations with respect to the transmitters during acalibration procedure. For example, in one embodiment, the calibrationis performed by placing the mobile device close to the steering wheel,close to dashboard at the front passenger area, on back seats, or in thearea between the front and back seats. The calibration is stored (e.g.,in the mobile device and associated with the vehicle (300)identification), and it is used to determine the location of the mobiledevice at a later time. In one embodiment, the calibration program maybe run, e.g., in factory, during installation by using a typical or thesame mobile device, by authorized personnel, the user, or service repairstaff, and the calibration data may be on the mobile device,electronically sent to the user for installation of the mobile device,placed on a server accessible via Internet, for later retrieval, storedon a non-volatile memory/storage of localized unit or accessible tolocalized unit (such as vehicle's computer/control system).

In one embodiment, the output signal power level of eachtransmitter/transceiver is measured by other transceiver(s) in order tobaseline the relative power output from each transmitter/transceiver,given that the locations of the local transmitter(s)/transceiver(s)remain fixed with respect to each other. For example, the signal outputpower of transmitter/transceiver 304 is measured by one or more oftransceivers 330, 332, 334, or 336. Comparing these power measurementswith a set of previously calibrated power measurements provides theamount of deviation in transmitted output power fromtransmitter/transceiver 304, since the prior calibration. For example,if signal power from transmitter/transceiver 304 (as measured by otherlocal transceivers) has dropped 2 dB (compared to the that duringcalibration), while the output signal power level out of transceiver 330(as measured by other transceivers) has increased 1 db sincecalibration, then in one embodiment, the relative output signal powermeasurements of the transceivers 304 and 330 (at the mobile device) isadjusted 3 dB compared to that during the calibration. Then, in oneembodiment, the adjusted measured transmitted output signals (i.e.,adjusted by 2 dB and 1 dB, respectively) and/or the adjusted ratio ofthe transmitted output power signals (i.e., adjusted by 3 dB) are usedas correction factors in estimating the distance of the mobile device tothe transmitters.

In one embodiment, the baseline power output measurement(s) of eachlocal transmitter/transceiver (as measured by other local transceivers)is communicated to the mobile device via a transmitter/transceiver(e.g., 336) (or used by localized unit), and the deviations of thesebaseline power levels from those of the calibration are used ascorrection factors when determining the distances (or relativedistances) of the mobile device to the local transmitters/transceivers.In one embodiment, during calibration of the transmitters/transceivers,the output signal power levels of local transmitters/transceivers aremeasured at some predefined distance(s) to the transmitters (e.g., 2feet and 4 feet), in addition to the measurements at the output signalpower levels by the other local transmitters/transceivers. Thismeasurement aids in determining more accurate measurement of thedistance to each transmitter by providing direct sample point(s) linkingthe transmitter output power to the distance.

For a (hypothetical) example in an embodiment, as illustrated in FIG.3(b), assume that during a calibration run, the values of output signalpower level (see Block 380) of transceiver 304 as measured bytransceivers 330, 332, 334, and 336, are −48 dBm, −52 dBm, −51 dBm, and−45 dBm. Further assume, the values of output signal power level (Block384) of transceiver 330 as measured by transceivers 304, 332, 334, and336 during calibration run are −47 dBm, −50 dBm, −51 dBm, and −44 dBm.Assume that during a baseline measurement at a later time, the outputsignal power level (Block 382) of transceiver 304 as measured bytransceivers 330, 332, 334, and 336, are −50 dBm, −59 dBm, −53 dBm, and−47 dBm, and the output signal power level (Block 386) of transceiver330 as measured by transceivers 304, 332, 334, and 336, are −46 dBm, −54dBm, −50 dBm, and −43 dBm. In this example, comparison of the signalpower measurements indicates that the power output of transceiver 304has likely dropped (381) by 2 dB since calibration, and the power outputof transceiver 330 has likely increased (385) by 1 dB since calibration.This, for example, can occur due to drift in the transmitter poweroutput over time. The data also indicates that the transceiver 332consistently measuring 5 dB less than expected when measuring the signaloutput power of transmitters 304 and 330. This, for example, can occurdue to an obstacle (383, 387) blocking the signal received attransceiver 332. Another measurement to confirm this conclusion is theoutput signal power measurement (not shown) of transmitter 332, by othertransceivers and comparing those measurements with those of calibration.In such a case, it is likely that all other transceivers (assuming notindividually blocked) would show about the same measured power leveldrop (e.g., 5 dB) since the calibration of transmitter 332. In oneembodiment, the power level measurements from calibration and baselineare compared to determine the transmitters or receivers that arepotentially blocked.

In an embodiment, the analysis considers/assumes n number oftransceivers (e.g., n=5, in FIG. 3(b)). For each transmitter calibration(e.g., Block 380 or 384), there are (n−1) measurements. Therefore, thereare n·(n−1) calibration points for all transmitters power measurements.Likewise, there are n·(n−1) baseline measurements (e.g., Blocks 382 and386). In one embodiment, the analysis assumes that the transmitted powermay drift for each transmitter; and therefore, there are n variablesrepresenting power drifts (D_(i), e.g., expressed in dB, 1≦i≦n). In oneembodiment, the analysis assumes that there may be a blockage close toeach receiver which attenuates the received power (as well as thetransmitted from the same transceiver). Therefore, there are n variablesrepresenting power attenuation due to proximity blockage (B_(i), e.g.,expressed in dB, 1≦i≦n). One embodiment uses the deviation in powerlevel between the calibration and baseline measurements; therefore,there are n·(n−1) power deviation data points corresponding to thedeviation from the calibration data points and the baseline data points.In one embodiment, there are 2n variables representing both D_(i), andB_(i) values. This indicates that for n≧3, with n·(n−1) deviation datapoints, there will be the same or more number of data points availablethan the number of variables, providing a redundancy for cross checkingor averaging the results. (For example, for n=5, there are 10 variablesand 20 power deviation data points.)

In one embodiment, the analysis assumes a blockage between theindividual transmitters and receivers (i.e., not specific to individualreceivers or transmitters). In an embodiment, the blockage matrix B_(ij)(1≦i, j≦n, e.g., expressed in dB) would represent the blockage betweenthe ith transmitter/transceiver and the jth receiver/transceiver. In oneembodiment, diagonal terms are set to zero (i.e., B_(ii)=0). In suchembodiment, there are n·(n−1) variables in the blockage matrix. In oneembodiment, the off-diagonal terms are symmetric, i.e., B_(ij)=B_(ij),reflecting an assumption that the signal attenuation is symmetric withrespect to the direction of signal propagation between transceivers. Insuch an embodiment, there are n·(n−1)/2 blockage variables. In oneembodiment, there are n number of transmission power drift variables,with D_(i) representing the power drift for the ith transmitter (e.g.,in dB) since its calibration. In one embodiment, there are n·(n−1)/2blockage variables B_(ij) and n number of transmission power driftvariables D_(i). Therefore, in such an embodiment, there are n·(n+1)/2number of variables. In one embodiment, there are n·(n−1) powerdeviation data points (as explained above). Therefore, for n≧3, therewill be the same or more number of data points than variables, providinga redundancy for cross checking or averaging the results. (For example,for n=5, there are 15 variables and 20 power deviation data points.) Forn<3, in one embodiment, other estimations, assumptions, diagnosticinformation (e.g., the input/settings/readings) from transceivers areused to estimate the variables. In one embodiment, given that all thevalues of power drift and blockages can be increased by same factorwithout affecting the perceived power measurement, there is anadditional normalizing equation (constraint) that would supplement thenumber of power deviation data points. In another words, the values ofthe blockage variables and power drifts may be normalized, e.g., basedon the smallest blockage value. In such an embodiment, for n<3 (e.g.,n=2), instead of just assuming two power drift variables (D₁ and D₂) andone common blockage variable (B₁₂), the additional normalizationconstraint provides that B₁₂ be zero if both D₁ and D₂ have thedifferent signs (in dB), or one of D₁ or D₂ be zero if they have thesame sign in dB. In one embodiment, the values or allowed/estimatedranges for D_(i)s are determined based on preconfigured values/limits,and/or readings/settings/input to the transceivers. These would provideadditional constraint to reflect more accurately the determination ofthe power drift and/or the blockage in the system.

In one embodiment, if the power output of the localtransmitters/transceivers, their receiving antennas and powermeasurements, and their propagation obstacles are similar, the ratio ofmeasured signal power level (by the other local transceivers) shouldtrack as expected with the distance to each transmitter. In oneembodiment, a consistent large deviation (e.g., drop) in the powermeasurement by other transceivers indicate that the transmitter is notworking properly or it is blocked by an unusual obstacle. Therefore, inone embodiment, the user is notified via communications from thelocalized unit to the mobile device (or the vehicle's computer system)in order to notify the user through a user interface (e.g., audio and/orvisual) about the issue. In one embodiment, the blocked transmitter isidentified to the user by its location on the vehicle, e.g., by matchingits identifier with its location using a query on a preconfiguredtable(s) having the transmitters/transceivers IDs and their installedlocations and/or description. Such table(s) is stored/maintained onlocalized unit, the mobile device, and/or a remote server accessible viathe mobile device and/or the localized unit (for example through its owncommunication device, the vehicle's computer/communication system or themobile device).

In one embodiment, the blockage variables and/or power drift variablesare calculated based on the calibration and baseline data measurements.In one embodiment, the user is notified about abnormal blockage or powerdrift via a user interface (e.g., on the mobile device or carcomputer/control system) or by email, SMS, or other communicationmeans/mediums. In one embodiment, identifying data and information aresent from the localized unit to the vehicle computer/control or themobile device. In one embodiment, if the blockage amount is more than apreconfigured threshold, the user is warned about the blockage and/orits location based on the identity of the transmitter(s)/transceiver(s).For example, the user may be warned that there is an object blocking thetransceiver on the right side of the back seat (e.g., 332 in Blocks 382and 386). Or the user may be warned that there is a blockage, betweenfront passenger and left back seat transceivers (i.e., 330, and 332).This could occur when for example a large metallic object is placed onthe front passenger side seat. In one embodiment, if the calculatedpower drift and/or the amount of blockage are more than their respectivethresholds, those measurements affected by the power drift and/orblockage are disregarded when estimating the distance of the mobiledevice to the transmitters/transceivers. In one embodiment, if theamount of power drift is less than a threshold, the localized unitadjusts (e.g., increases or lowers) the power output setting on theparticular transmitter (e.g., in multiple steps with baselinere-measurements). In one embodiment, the statistics of the adjustmentand/or power measurements are kept in memory/storage or sent to a serveror the mobile device, for further analysis such as identification ofdegradation in the system.

In one embodiment, the vehicle sensors, such as weight monitoring onseats (e.g., as used to detect a seated passenger), are used to estimatethe approximate blockage expected from the passenger(s), or used tocheck/validate the blockage variables obtained, e.g., from baselinemeasurements. In such an embodiment, the sensor data may be useddirectly or via the vehicle's computer system. In one embodiment, thevehicle/sensor status and data is sent to the localized unit or to themobile device (e.g., after determining that the mobile devicecorresponds to the vehicle, via e.g., owner, or a family plan).

In one embodiment, the power drift and blockage factors are used toadjust the measured transmitted signal power of the localizedtransmitters/transceivers at the mobile device. The output powertransmitted by the local transmitters/transceivers may be different evenduring their calibration; therefore, the output signal power of thelocal transmitters/transceivers (during calibration) measured at somepredefined distance(s) to the transmitters (e.g., 2 feet and 4 feet) areused to better estimate the mobile device distance (or relativedistances) to the transmitters. For example, in one embodiment, assumethat it is estimated that the output power of transmitters 304 and 330have drifted by −2 dB and +1 dB, respectively (e.g., FIG. 3(b), 381 and285), while the power output of other transmitter have not changed.Furthermore, assume that there is an estimated blockage of −5 dB (e.g.,FIG. 3(b), 383 or 387) associated with transceiver 332. Also, assumethat during the calibration, the output power measurement taken fromtransceivers 304, 330, 332, 334, and 336 at e.g., 2 feet and/or 4 feetdistance(s), (by a specialized power meter, or a typical or the samemobile device) provided the following measurements −39 dBm, −38 dBm, −39dBm, −39 dBm, −34 dBm, at e.g., 2 feet, respectively. Based on theestimated power drift and blockage, the adjusted power levels fromtransceivers 304, 330, 332, 334, and 336 (measured by the same tools) at2 feet away from the transceivers would be −41 dBm, −37 dBm, −44 dBm,−39 dBm, −34 dBm, respectively, during the time of baseline measurement.

In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 3(a), when the mobile deviceis at location 326, it is closer to transceivers 304, 330, and 336, thantransceivers 334 and 332 with its separation distance indicated by 340,342, 350, 344, and 346, respectively. Also, when the mobile device is atlocation 324, it is closer to transceivers 334, 332, and 336, thantransceivers 304 and 330, with its separation distances indicated by345, 347, 351, 341, and 343, respectively. In contrast, when the mobiledevice is outside of vehicle, its separation distance to transceiver 336grows even longer (353). As an example, having the mobile device locatedat 326, assume the output signal power measurements by the mobile devicefor the transceivers 304, 330, 332, 334, and 336 are −45.5 dBm, −43.7dBm, −47.8 dBm, −52.3 dBm, −37.1 dBm, respectively (e.g., during thesame time or close the time of the baseline measurement). In oneembodiment, the distance of the mobile device to the transmitters isdetermined by comparing these values with the adjusted power levels(adjusted for power drift and blockage) from transceivers measured at acertain distance (e.g., 2 feet) to the transmitter. For example, in oneembodiment, the power ratio is attributed to the separation distance ofthe mobile device from the transceiver (compared to e.g., 2 feet). Forexample, in one embodiment, for transceiver 330, the ratio of the localtransceiver output signal power measured by the mobile device (e.g.,−43.7 dBm) to the adjusted power level (at 2 feet) (e.g., −37 dBm) is−6.7 dB. Attributing this ratio to the spatial attenuation, in oneembodiment, the distance of the mobile device to transceiver 304 isdetermined by ΔAttenuation=−20 Log₁₀(r/r_(ref)), where r is the distanceto the transmitter and r_(ref) is the referenced distance used duringcalibration (e.g., 2 feet). This estimates that the mobile device isabout 4.3 feet. Applying similar procedure, the distance of the mobiledevice to the transceivers 304, 330, 332, 334, and 336 are estimated tobe 3.4′, 4.3′, 5.5′, 5.8′, and 2.9′, respectively, which places themobile device close to the driver's seat toward the center line of thecar, as demonstrated by FIG. 3(c). For the purpose of illustration, inthis figure, the distance from 304 to 330, 336, 334, and 332 was set to4′, 6′, 8′, and 9′, respectively, and 336 was set on long axis ofvehicle with each of (304, 330) and (334, 332) pairs arrangedsymmetrically with respect to long axis.

In one embodiment, once the distances of the mobile device areapproximated with respect to the local transmitter/transceivers, atriangulation technique is used to map the location of the mobile devicecompared to features of the vehicle, based on the locations of thetransmitters/transceivers with respect to the vehicle (e.g., see FIG.3(c) and FIG. 3(a)). In one embodiment, by mapping the position of themobile device, it is determined whether the mobile device is located incertain regions within or close to the vehicle. In one embodiment, thepredefined regions are stored as polygons, multi-sided geometricalobjects with curved sides (e.g., FIG. 3(c), 390), or free-hand drawn(digitized) geometries, in the same coordinate system as the mappedlocation of the mobile device. Known mathematical technique can be usedto determine whether the mapped location of the mobile device is in aparticular region and/or its distance to any similarly defined object.For example, if region 390 is defined to represent the normal reach ofthe driver in a vehicle while driving, in an embodiment, the mappedlocation 326 within the region indicates that the mobile device is in atriggering region, and a device feature should be modified (e.g., SMScapability should be disabled).

In an embodiment, the accuracy of locating the mobile device is enhancedby using the same mobile device or similar tool to measure thetransmitted output power of the local transmitters/transceivers atcertain distance(s) from the transmitters, during the calibration. Thisis because, in the embodiment, the measured power levels by the mobiledevice (e.g., at or about the same time as the baseline measurements) iscompared with the calibrated values to attribute the deviation to thespatial dependence of the wave form attenuation. If the device(s) usedduring the calibration phase is different from the mobile device inmeasuring the transmitted signal power of the transceivers (e.g., due tothe antenna size, other calibrations, or internal powergain/amplification), the difference in the power readings between twodevices (i.e., calibrating device and the mobile device) can cause anoffset in the perceived distance from the transmitter. For example, ifthe power readings differ by 3 dB (i.e., about twice as much), theoffset in the distance estimation would be about 41%(=10^((3 dB/20 dB))). Due to the logarithmic dependencies, smalldeviations in power readings do not significantly impact the distanceestimation. For coarse measurements and location of the mobile devicewithin or about a vehicle, in an embodiment, the tolerances can also beapplied when defining the triggering regions (e.g., 390), for example,by expanding/inflating its boundaries.

In one embodiment, the power measurements of the transceivers outputsignal by the mobile device and the calibrating tool(s) are converted topower density measurement, based on the rating and specifications of themeasuring tools and device. By normalizing the power values to powerdensities, in one embodiment, the peculiarities of the measuring devicesare effectively masked from the analysis. For example, instead ofmeasure the output power as dBm, in one embodiment, the measured valueis converted to, for example, dBm/cm² to reflect the power density. Inan embodiment, the measured power densities are similarly adjusted forpower drift and blockage estimations. In one embodiment, thetransceivers' measurements of other transmitters/transceiverstransmitted output signal power during calibration or baselinemeasurements are also similarity done based on power density.

In one embodiment, the output power transmitted by a local transmitteris estimated by utilizing the circuitry and meters on the transmitteritself. A prior calibration and rating can also be used to estimate thetransmitter output power based on the settings and/or input to thetransmitter. In such an embodiment, the measurement of the transmitter'soutput at predefined distance(s) from the transmitter (duringcalibration) may become optional or require less number of measurements,as an alternative way to measure and monitor the transmitter's outputpower is provided by the transmitter itself. In an embodiment, theoutput power levels (and/or the settings and input parameters) of thetransmitters/transceivers are stored during the calibration phase. Inone embodiment, the transmitted signal output power of a transmitted isconverted to a power density value at a given distance (e.g., 2 feet)from the transmitter based on the type of the transmitter and/or knownor estimated theoretical/empirical power density vs. distancerelationships.

In one embodiment, the mobile device distances to the local transmittersare estimated based on the power ratios received from multiple localtransmitters. In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 3(d), thedistance of the mobile device (at 326) to transmitters/transceivers 340,330, 332, 334, and 336, is indicated by 340, 342, 344, 346, and 350,respectively, and the output signal power levels transmitted from thetransmitters/transceivers to the mobile device depend on the respectivedistances. In one embodiment, the measured power levels are adjusted forestimated power drifts in the transmitters and/or blockages, asdescribed earlier. In one embodiment, the power level measurements arenormalized to power densities at the mobile device and/or calibratingdevice(s). In one embodiment, the transmitters/transceivers output poweris determined, e.g., by a prior calibration or by using the transmitterscircuitry/settings/input. In one embodiment, the measured power (orpower density) of each transceiver at the mobile device iscorrected/normalized using the determined the transmitters/transceiversoutput power. This correction/normalization estimates the power levelsas if the transceivers had the same output powers, therefore, in anembodiment, the normalized measured power (or density) level isexpressed in dB. In one embodiment, the adjustment and correctionfactors are applied to the transceiver's transmitted power level (orpower density) as measured by the mobile device. In one embodiment, thevariations (e.g., ratios) in values of the corrected/adjusted powerreadings at the mobile device are attributed to the spatial attenuationof the wave form transmitted to the mobile device from the localtransceivers. Therefore, in an embodiment, the ratio of thecorrected/adjusted power (or power density) from two transceivers aredependent on the distances to those transceivers. In one embodiment, thedependency is logarithmic, and for example, it is expressed as(P_(c2)/P_(c1))=−20 LOG₁₀(r₂/r₁) (in dB), where P_(c2) and P_(c1) arecorrected/adjusted power (or power density) measurements at the mobiledevice from transmitter 1 (e.g., 304) and transmitter 2 (e.g., 330),respectively, and r₂ and r₁ are the mobile device distance to thetransmitters (e.g., 340 and 342, respectively). If expressing thenormalized powers in dB, in an embodiment, the relationship becomesΔp₂₁=−20 LOG₁₀(r₂/r₁) (in dB), where Δp₂₁ is the difference of thecorrected/adjusted power (or power density) levels expressed in dB. Inan embodiment, the ratio of the distances from a mobile device to twotransmitters are determined, e.g., based on r₂/r₁=10^(Δp₂₁/−20 dB).(Note that a^b indicates a to the power of b). Therefore, as an exampleillustrating an embodiment, assume the measured output signal power fromtransceivers 304 and 330 (FIG. 3(d)), at the mobile device are −45.5 dBmand −43.7 dBm, respectively, and also assume that since the calibration,the transmitted power drift (D_(i)) of the transceivers were −2 dB and+1 dB, respectively. In addition, assume that output power of thetransmitters (during calibration) were −0.2 dBm (0.95 mW) and 0.8 dBm(1.20 mW), respectively, (or assume that the measured power at e.g., 2feet distance during the calibration were −39 dBm and −38 dBm,respectively). Therefore, the measured power levels are adjusted to−43.5 dBm and −44.7 dBm (to pre-power drift levels), respectively. Theadjusted power levels are normalized to take into account that theoutput power (at calibration) of the transmitters were different by 1 dB(=0.8 dBm−(−0.2 dBm)=−38 dBm−(−39 dBm)). For example,normalizing/correcting relative to transmitter₁, thecorrected/normalized power levels would become −43.5 dBm and −45.7 dBm,for transmitter₁ and transmitter₂, respectively. Alternatively, tonormalize, the ratio of the (adjusted) power levels to the calibratedpower output of the transceivers or (the calibrated power measurement ate.g., 2 feet from the transmitters) may be taken. The results will bethe same in this example, because the normalization results in arelative correction of 1 dB. Then, the ratio of the corrected/adjustedoutput signal power levels (i.e., Δp₂₁) for two transmitters (304 and330) as measured by the mobile device becomes −2.2 dB (=−45.7 dBm−(−43.5dBm)). Therefore, the distance ratio to the transceivers becomer₂/r₁=10^(−2.2 dB/−20 dB)=1.29. This is the same ratio of the distancefrom the mobile device (326) and the transceivers (304 and 330) asillustrated in FIG. 3(c), i.e., r₂/r₁=4.4′/3.4′=1.29.

In one embodiment, the location of the mobile device is determined byusing the calculated ratio of the distances of the mobile device to thetransmitters/transceivers. For example, as illustrate in FIG. 3(d), thelocus of points on the plane (or in 3 dimensional space) having the sameratio (k<1) of distance to two fixed points (e.g., 304 and 330) is acircle (e.g., 368) (or a sphere in 3D), with its center (370) locatedalong the line (378) joining two fixed points (304 and 330) and locatedat a distance (364) l_(c) from the midpoint (360) of the segment joiningthe fix points (304 and 330). The center of circle is outside of thesegment joining the fixed points and it is closer to the one (304) whosedistance to any point on the circle (368) is smaller than that of theother fixed point (330) (i.e., length of 340<length of 342). If a (362)denotes the distance of the fix points (304 or 330) to their segmentmidpoint (360), the radius R (366) of circle 368 as and its location ofits center l_(c) (364) are given by:R=a·√{square root over (γ²−1)}l _(c) =a·γWhere

$\gamma = \frac{1 + k^{2}}{1 - k^{2}}$

Note that since here k<1, then γ>1 and a<l_(c) and 0<l_(c)−R<a.

In special case where the distant ratio is 1, both l_(c) and R tend toinfinity, as γ tends to infinity and k tends to 1. In this case, thelocus of points having same distance to the fixed points simple becomesthe perpendicular bisector of segment joining the fixed points.

Similarly, the ratio of distance of the mobile device (326) to anotherpair of transceivers (e.g., 332 and 334 pair) is used to determine thecorresponding locus of points having the same distant ratio to the fixedpoints (332 and 334). The locus of these points, as depicted in FIG.3(d), lie on a circle (374) having a center (372) on a line (379)joining the fixed points (332 and 334) and a radius (376).

In one embodiment, intercepting a circle (e.g., 368) associated with apair of transceivers (e.g., 304 and 330 pair) with another circle (e.g.,374) associated with another pair (e.g., 334 and 332 pair) narrows andlimits the possible locations (e.g., 326 and 320) of the mobile deviceswith respect to the transceivers, as the intercept points of thecircles. For example, considering 4 transceivers (FIG. 3(d): 304, 330,332, and 334), there are 3 pairs of independent power ratios, and threeindependent circles. For example, two of the three independent circlescould be 368 and 374. The third circle could be associated with any ofthe remaining pairs (304, 334), (332, 330), (334, 330), or (304, 332).The third circle associated with any of the third pairs would limit thelocation of the mobile device to one of 326 and 320. An additionaltransceiver (e.g., 326) would provide additional power ratio (with anyof the other transceivers) and would provide an additional independentcircle (associated with it and one of the other transceivers), whichpotentially validates the determination of the location of the mobiledevice based on 4 transceivers. In one embodiment, the independentcircles are identified by numbering and sequencing the transceivers, andselecting (i, j) pairs where i<j and i and j are associated with ith andjth transceivers. In an embodiment, the transceivers are sequenced andnumbered based on their corresponding transmitted output signal powermeasurements at the mobile device, so that the generated interceptpoints more accurately reflect the potential locations of the mobiledevice. In one embodiment, more weight is given to the circlesassociated with pairs of transceivers having higher combined powermeasurements at the location of the mobile device. In one embodiment,the weight is expressed in dB, while in another embodiment, the weightis expressed in linear scale (e.g., mW), in order to drastically reducethe weight of the pairs having one (or both) transceiver whose signalpower level measured at the location of the mobile device is relativelylow.

In one embodiment, a hybrid approach is taken to determine the locationof the mobile device. For example, two (or three) circles associatedwith two (or there) transceiver pair are intercepted to determine anarrowed potential locations for the mobile device. Then, a transceiver(e.g., 336) is used to determine the distance to the mobile device usinga power level approach. This way, for example, one embodimentdiscriminates between the potential locations of the mobile device(e.g., 326 and 320) by comparing the estimated (based on power level)distance from the mobile device to the transceiver (336) to thedistances (350 and 353) from the transceiver (326) to the potentiallocations (326 and 320, respectively) of the mobile device.

In one embodiment, the power levels (or density) transmitted by thelocal transceivers are mapped for each transceiver on and/or aroundvehicle, e.g., by using actual measurements during calibration,empirical results, simulation, and/or estimations, with/withoutpassengers or with different arrangements of passenger seating. Based onthis power level mapping, a set of contour maps are generated to reflecta loci of points having the same ratio of the power (or density) betweenthe two transceivers (pair) for a set of ratios (e.g., expressed in dB).Then, in an embodiment, the contours are used to map, e.g., byinterpolation or extrapolation between contour lines, to determine acontour representing the determined distance ratio corresponding to thetransceiver pair. Then, in one embodiment, suchinterpolated/extrapolated contour lines from multiple transceiver pairsare superimposed to determine their intercept points as potentiallocation of the mobile device. In previous examples, the contour lineswere represented by intercepting circles. In one embodiment, thelocation of the mobile device is estimated as an average location of acluster of intercept points that are closely located with each other. Inone embodiment, if the contours (or circles) do not actually intercept,a stand-in pair of intercept points which define the shortest segmentconnecting the contours (or circles) are used instead.

Similarly, in one embodiment, the signal power levels are measured andcalibrated under various occupancy of the vehicle and this data is usedlater to determine the location of the mobile device by looking up thedetermined power levels/ratios in the gathered data and performinginterpolation/extrapolation on the gathered data points.

In one embodiment, for example using BLUETOOTH® (A wireless technologyprotocol) or similar technology, for establishing the transceiverrangers (e.g., 102) or used to locate the mobile device within a vehicle(e.g., FIG. 3) based on the transceiver's output power level, the outputpower level of the transceivers are prevented from varying during thecommunication setup with the mobile device, or they are set back totheir original calibrated levels for the purpose of establishingrange(s) and determining distances from the mobile device.

Generally, when a transceiver attempts to participate in apower-controlled link with another transmitter, it needs to measure itsreceiver signal strength and determine if the other transmitter shouldmodify its output power level. This is achieved for example via ReceiverSignal Strength Indicator (RSSI). The instructions for modifying thetransmission power are provided by the LMP (FIG. 12, 1206). Therefore,in one embodiment, the transceivers are modified to not change theiroutput power level due to such requests from other transceivers, oralternatively, store their calibrated setting and restore to thosesettings before performing their baseline measurements or providing alimited range to the mobile device. This modification may be done byconfiguration, additional software hooks to modify/supplement the codebehavior, or additional logic at the RF power control module todetermine if it should respond to request for power level change.

In one embodiment, directional transceivers/transmitters are used totailor the ranges (e.g., 102) and coverage. Due to its angulardependence of their signal power, the distance of the mobile device tothe transmitter may not be accurately estimated in all directions onlybased on the measured power level measured at the mobile device. In oneembodiment, the transmitted power is lowered to limit the size of range.In one embodiment, overlapping (directional) ranges are established(e.g., in a checkerboard pattern) by multiple transceivers, so that byidentifying which transceivers cover the mobile device, it iseffectively determined in which overlapped portion of the correspondingranges, the mobile device is potentially located.

In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 7, the Localized Unit (702 and752) is includes the transmitter/transceiver. In other embodiments, thelocalized unit is not tightly integrated with thetransmitter(s)/transceiver(s), e.g., because of the physicalinstallation/location and/or size.

As shown in FIG. 7, in one embodiment, the modification of the featureof the mobile device (704, 754), is affected by one or morecontextual/environmental variable/parameter/signals, such as the statusof the vehicle (760) (or a subset thereof).

FIG. 8 shows an example for illustrating this concept, in an embodimentof this invention (however, any codes or similar input can also be used,as a substitute). As illustrated, for example, “not-PARK”variable/signal/input is AND-ed (802) with IGNITIONvariable/signal/input, and the (logical or physical) result is used toselect among multiple codes (804), for example, via a logical or aphysical multiplexer (MUX). In one embodiment, code(s) are universalcodes or unique codes, e.g., predefined, for feature activation ordeactivation tasks. Another code for identification oftransmitter/transceiver or vehicle can be sent separately or incombination with the code(s) mentioned above at 804, e.g. added,concatenated, or mixed/coded together. In one embodiment, the localizedunit (of 752) is represented by the system shown at 800. In thisembodiment, units 806 and 808 are integrated within 800. However, theycan be separated, as located outside of system 800, in anotherembodiment. The system 800 communicates (810) with mobile device (820)wirelessly or via a connection through a wired network, cradle or aplug. In the logic demonstrated by FIG. 8, the feature modifying code(which triggers the modification of the feature at the mobile device),is sent to the mobile device when the vehicle is on (ignition is on) andthe vehicle is not in PARK mode (e.g., in Drive gear). This logic may beimplemented in software, firmware (e.g., FPGA), and/or hardware (e.g.,ASIC) within localized unit and/or transceiver(s) in an embodiment ofthis invention. In one embodiment, the car status is sent from thelocalized unit and/or transceivers to the mobile device and the abovelogic is implemented in the mobile device by a program running on themobile device. Similarly, in one embodiment, the vehicle status may becommunicated to a remote server/service (via for example vehicle'scommunication system, localized unit communication system, or the mobiledevice) and similar logic is performed by a remote entity/server,followed by the mobile device receiving a notification from a remoteentity/server (directly or via computer system in vehicle or localizedunit) whether to modify a feature on the mobile device or take otheractions.

In an embodiment, other or additional vehicle status (e.g. speed), roadstatus (e.g., rainy), passenger status, and/or information (e.g., fromvehicle's sensors such as outside lighting) are used to send anappropriate code to the mobile device. In an embodiment, where only onecode is sent to the mobile device (e.g., indicating modification of afeature), logically or physically, the selection step (e.g., via MUX(804)) may be implemented differently or eliminated.

Similarly, as shown in FIG. 9, in an embodiment, system 900 (e.g.,representing a localized unit) communicates (910) with the mobile deviceby sending one or more codes. In this embodiment, the mobile device(920) communicates with a transceiver (908) in its range, sends thesystem (900) a code (e.g., indicating that a mobile device is capable ofmodifying its feature). Upon receiving the signal/message by thetransceiver, the message is decoded (912) and the transmitted code isverified by the system (914) to check for the validity of the receivedcode, e.g., using a preconfigured stored code(s). Based on theverification, the code(s) (e.g., feature modification/activationindicating code(s), e.g., as discussed earlier in context of system 800)is sent to the mobile device based on car status/parameters/sensors(e.g., whether the vehicle is out of PARK and (902) the engine is on).The lines (solid and dotted) from Verification module (914) to the logic(902), code selection (904), and Encoder (906) indicate some of multipleways that the system can be implemented in various embodiments in orderto send the feature activation/deactivation code(s) after the system hasalready received and verified the initial code from the mobile device.For example, Verification module can effectively nullify the logic(e.g., by sending a logic “0” to an AND gate (902)), disable the codeselection unit/process (e.g., by disabling MUX (904)), and/ordisabling/preventing Encoder (906) or Transceiver (908) to receive thecode(s) in the first place (e.g., by modifying the output at theirprevious stages (904 or 906)). In an embodiment, Verification module cansimilarly enable these modules/processes when the verification issuccessful, e.g., by sending a logic “1” to the logic module (902),enable code selection module by enabling MUX, enabling Encoder (906) toreceive selected code, and/or modifying the output at stages at 904 or906 (as indicated by dotted lines in FIG. 9). FIG. 9 is provided forillustration purposes of the concept, as there are multiple ways toimplement such embodiment known to one skilled in the art.

In one embodiment, the mobile device sends a message to a remoteserver/service when modifying a feature. For example, in one embodiment,when disabling SMS feature on the mobile device, the mobile device sendsa message to SMSC to store (i.e., to hold) the incoming messages, untilthe hold is removed, e.g., by sending another message to SMSC to forwardthe messages to the mobile device.

FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment where the mobile device (1054)communicates, for example, with Telco (1074)/network/SMSC and/or itsdatabase/remote service or server (represented by 1076), for examplethrough an intermediate cell phone tower antenna 1072. In oneembodiment, when a feature of the mobile device (e.g., SMS) is disabled,a message is sent to 1074 to indicate this change. For example, in oneembodiment, a message is sent to SMSC to indicate that the mobile device(1054) should not receive SMS. This indication/flag is stored andmaintained at SMSC (1074) and/or a corresponding database (1076). In oneembodiment, the indication to disable/limit the feature isstored/linked/associated with other information, such as the vehicleID/localized unit identification/transceiver's identification. In oneembodiment, additional information about the car, 1st telephone, 2ndtelephone, transfer rules (e.g., FIG. 5), forwarding rules, family plansand their connections together for conference calling or forwarding thecalls/text messages, storage schemes and plans, delay plans for storageand forwarding the message/text, configurations, parameters, logical andconditional rules and statements, information about passengers, and/orsimilar information are stored at and accessed from DB (1076). Thedatabase (1076) and all the data above can be distributed in one or moredatabases, or at one or more locations, and offered by one or morebusinesses, independently.

In one embodiment, the communication can go between 1058 and 1074 (orbetween 1074 and 1052), instead of (or in combination with)communication between 1054 and 1074.

FIG. 5 illustrate steps related to an embodiment with multiple mobiledevices (e.g., cellular phone), corresponding to, for example, thedriver (FIG. 2, 226) and one or more passenger(s) (222 or 224), forexample, occupying seats 212 and 214 (or 216), where one of the methodsof this disclosure is used to determine that each mobile device iswithin a range of, for example, deactivation/disabling/modification(202) or activation/enabling/in-range (231), so that, for example, theSMS functionality in the first mobile device (e.g., 226) getsmodified/disabled and the SMS function or messages/calls is forwarded tothe second mobile device (e.g., 222), so that the mobile device at 222is enabled to do the same function, by the passenger on seat 214(instead of by the driver at 226).

In one embodiment, a first mobile device (e.g., 202) functionality islimited/disabled/modified due to its entrance in effective range oftransceiver 204 (close to the driver's side). As the result a message issent to, for example, a remote server/service/SMSC to flag the firstmobile device as modified featured. In addition, the vehicle/transceiverID associated with the first mobile device is also sent and stored atthe remote service (e.g., in a database), as described earlier. As shownin FIG. 5, in one embodiment, a second mobile device (simply denoted asmobile device in FIG. 5, 500), for example, located at (222) receives acode from a local transceiver (e.g., 230) and determines that itindicates an in-rang event (510), i.e., the second mobile device (222)is in effective range (231) of transceiver 230 (or it is determined thatthe second mobile device is located at or near the front side passengerseat (214)). In one embodiment, the mobile device sends (530) a messageto (for example) the remote service/center/server/SMSC, identifying thesecond mobile device, the vehicle/transmitter ID (230), and in-rangeevent (or its availability to assume another mobile phonefunctionality/feature). In one embodiment, the remote service (or SMSC)attempts to match the first mobile device with the second mobile device.For example, in one embodiment, the remote service queries the vehicleID to find matching mobile device(s) that are currently havemodified-feature attributes (e.g., by looking up a database). In thisexample, the query result would include the first mobile device as itwas tagged as feature-modified and it was linked (e.g., by an entry in adatabase) to the unique vehicle/transmitter(s) ID. In one embodiment, itis determined that both first and second mobile devices are associatedwith the same vehicle. In one embodiment, the remote server (or thefirst mobile device) determines whether the 2^(nd) mobile device canassume the modified/limited functionalities/features of the first mobiledevice. As an example, a predefined table is queries that provide theidentities of the mobile devices having such authorization. An examplewould be a set of mobile devices that belong to a family plan or abusiness plan, etc. In one embodiment, the service provides an interfacefor users to configure/update/maintain the list. If the second mobiledevice can stand-in for the first mobile device (e.g., per list), thenthe second mobile device corresponds to the correct vehicle (540), andthe remote service (or SMSC), e.g., forwards the text messages that weredestined to the feature-modified mobile device (i.e., the first mobiledevice) to the stand-in mobile device (i.e., the second mobile device)(560).

Similarly, in one embodiment, the status of each mobile device (e.g.,226 and 222) are determined, and the function or message tasks areforwarded to 222, by the central server. Mobile device 226 isdeactivated, partially or fully, e.g. at least for the functions thatwere forwarded to mobile device 222. The identification steps are doneat steps 500 and 530, and the decision steps are done at steps 510 and540, with decisions to keep monitoring at steps 520 and 550, and finalstep of forwarding the tasks at step 560.

In an embodiment, where one mobile device is shared between the driverand one or more passengers, (e.g., a mobile telephone belongs to thedriver originally), and it is within the feature deactivation/disablingrange of the driver seat, as determined by any of the methods mentionedin this disclosure, such as using items 204 and 230 fortransmitter/transceiver (as an example), or ranges 202 and 231, for thedriver and passenger, and a mobile device, e.g., item 226 in FIG. 2.However, when the phone is given to a passenger, in another seat, e.g.,moving from seat 212 to seat 214, the signal goes to the center, aserver, or SMSC, to update that the phone is now within anactivation/enabling range, for the current location, to update thestatus to the activated or enabled device. Then, the passenger can usethe feature, e.g., act on it and talk or text on the phone, back andforth.

In one embodiment, when the phone moves back, from range 231 to range202 (e.g., handed from a passenger on seat 214 to the driver on seat212), then a message is sent to the center, a server, or SMSC, to updatethat the mobile device (e.g., a cellular phone) is now within a featuredeactivation/disabling range, and thus, the system does not let thedriver use e.g., the texting functionality from then until the situationchanges again, in the future.

In FIG. 11, there are some examples of communications, notificationand/or forwarding from one device (or another device, or more devices,or in combination). However, these can be generalized to any number ofproxies or intermediate devices, for storing, notification, forwarding,instructions, rules, controlling, and replacing. The SMSC can begeneralized to any server, central place, or any other datacenter/processing center.

FIG. 11(a) shows one embodiment of the local device or localized unit(752) (maybe, located in the car, for example) sending a code to themobile device, which, in turn, sends a Halt signal to SMSC, to stopsending any message or text, for example, to the user.

FIG. 11 (b) a local device (e.g., car communication system) acts as aproxy, and takes over. (The mobile device sends a proxy message to thelocal device.) Then, the local device acts as an intermediate device,and sends a Halt signal to SMSC.

In FIG. 11(c), we have multiple mobile devices, for the same localdevice, for which the availability of the second device is announced bythe 2nd device, directly to SMSC, and the function for device 1 ishalted, by the Halt message from device 1 to SMSC. Then, themessage/function is forwarded to the second device, from SMSC.

In FIG. 11(d), we have multiple mobile devices, for the same localdevice, for which the availability of the second device is announced bythe 2nd device to the device 1, which will notify SMSC about theavailability of device 2 (indirect notification to SMSC, in contrast toFIG. 11(c)). Then, the message/function is forwarded to device 2, fromSMSC, instead of device 1. (The code transmission and in-rangeverification are already taught by other examples in this disclosure.)

Note that the teaching in this disclosure also applies to anywavelength, RF, infrared, X-ray, microwave, radio waves, laser, otherparts of electromagnetic spectrum, visible, or invisible parts, plussonar, radar, Doppler effect, sound waves, shock waves, or ultrasoundwaves. In one embodiment, an array of antennas is located on the top ofthe roof of the car, or inside the door of the car. The teaching in thisdisclosure also applies to the reflection, transmission, refraction, oremission, by/from/deflected by/through antennas, objects, human, users,drivers, passengers, telephones, tags, smart cards, IDs, RFID, or mobiledevices, either active or passive (no battery or power, for example),and detected or received by some other dishes, antennas, detectors,sensors, CCDs, sensitive films, sensitive transistors or diodes,recording media, storage media, counter, accumulator, lenses, orsemiconductor layers, to find/determine the location of users,telephones, and other objects, in the car or at other places.

In one embodiment, the sensor/transceiver or multiplesensors/transceivers are placed in a vehicle (moving object, or anyobject, in general). In one embodiment, the RFID (active or passive)technology is used, and RFID transceiver(s) are placed at the steeringwheel, dashboard of the car, roof, door(s), mirror (center one, or onthe side of the car), sun-visors, or other locations in the car. In oneembodiment, the one or more sensors or detectors are placed near thedriver or closer to the driver of the car. In one embodiment, a rangethreshold (e.g., FIG. 1, 102) is the maximum effective length/distanceof the operation for this current device/system (or sensors) (i.e.,within the range of operation of this current invention). In oneembodiment, the mobile device is equipped with RFID transceiver/tag.

In one embodiment, an array of antennas is used, to make the signaldirectional. In one embodiment, the transceivers are placed at theceiling of the vehicle or close to the floor (e.g., under the seats).

In one embodiment, the driver is excluded, but others on the car are notexcluded, to perform a task (or have an option or functionality on themobile device) or send/receive some signal or information. In oneembodiment, some locations in the car are designated as hotspots, to beexcluded, or to be included, to perform a task or receive some signal orinformation. In one embodiment, some locations in the car are designatedas hotspots, in combination with a context (for example, the type ofmessage, the sender, the identity of the receiver, the time of themessage, the length of the message, or the content of the message, suchas Private Message, Emergency Message, Financial Message, or “For ThePerson Named Joe Smith Message”), to be excluded (e.g. cannot do it), orto be included (e.g. can do it, or vice versa), to perform a task (orreceive some service) or receive some signal or information.

Note that “can-do-it” situation can be generalized to all thesesituations. The user (limiting in terms of time or number of functionsand tasks):

-   -   can do it,    -   or partially do it,    -   or with limited option do it,    -   or sometimes can do it,    -   or conditionally can do it,    -   or can do it as a group,        related to a task, sending or obtaining an information or        warning message, or disabling or enabling some functions,        options, displays, turning on devices or circuits, or menu.

In one embodiment, a context alone (or in combination with the otherparameters) is the deciding factor for the determination, to beexcluded, or to be included, to perform a task or receive some signal orinformation. In one embodiment, the identity (e.g. by name, subject toverification, by biometrics, PKI/private/public key, symmetricencryption, smart card, PIN/code, personal ID/password, or theircombinations), or the position of the person (e.g. parent (of the driveror user), mother, father, guardian, owner of the business/car, boss,family member, an adult, police, authority figure, owner of the car,power-of-attorney, proxy, or court-appointed person), is the determiningfactor (alone, or in combination), to be excluded, or to be included, toperform a task or receive some signal or information.

In one embodiment, the biometrics includes the conventionalidentification methods, such as face recognition, knuckle recognition,eye recognition, iris recognition, finger-print, finger recognition,signature, voice recognition, handwriting recognition, or patternrecognition, for identification or verification of the presence of theuser/driver/passengers in the car, located at various point(s) in thecar, for various seats/user(s), with one or more sensors or cameras inthe car, and a central processing unit, in the same car, or in a remotelocation.

In one embodiment, for train, metro, or any public transportation means,the operator's usage can be blocked, and at the same time, amessage/warning will be sent to the main station about the attempt orthe actual usage of the operator, with proper recordation in a centralserver, with a time-stamp and number of occurrences. It can cause theemergency brake, disabling the control from operator side, ortransferring the control to the headquarters.

In one embodiment, the message or warning can go to the same user,and/or his/her parents, his/her boss, third party (e.g. police), oranybody designated by the user or others. It can be in the form of eachor combination of the following: text, telephone call, ring, audio,multimedia, movies, video, siren, vibration, light, flashing light,smell (e.g. releasing/spraying a sharp smell, from a chemical reservoir,container, or box, to warn or shake the user), voice message (standardor customized warnings, by user's voice or others'), predeterminedmessage, customized message, real-time message, automatically conferencecall initiation, giving options on the user's telephone orcomputer/computing device, giving options on another person's telephoneor computer/computing device, and/or specific music, song, sound, ornote, for a specific situation, customized or assigned to, by the useror a third party, to remind the person or user about the specificsituation. For example, a specific sound or music may/can/will remind orsignal the boss (e.g. owner of the shipping company) that theuser/driver/operator number 5 (e.g. among/out of his 25 drivers) hasactivated the warning or message.

In one embodiment, the following one or more conditions (or theirinverse or negative logic counterparts) must be met, to activate thewarning or message, to cause an action or task, or to start, enable,stop, or disable a function or task (e.g. stop getting and/or sendingtext messages and/or voice messages, or both, except, e.g., for to/fromemergency numbers (911) or parents' number(s), or alternatively, with noexception, as another embodiment), for user or a third party, determinedin real-time or pre-determined before, by user, system, government,laws, rules, or third party:

-   -   ignition is on,    -   the key is in ignition slot,    -   the car is in the Parking mode,    -   the car is in the Drive or Reverse mode, but otherwise stopped        by applying brakes,    -   the car is moving,    -   the car is slowing down (or deceleration),    -   the car is speeding up (or acceleration),    -   the hand-brake is applied,    -   the car is stopped, but the engine is running at idle,    -   the tires or wheels are sliding or rotating,    -   the speedometer shows a non-zero value,    -   the engine speed (RPM, round per minute) shows a non-zero value,        and/or    -   the car is in the Drive or Reverse mode, and also moving.

The conditions above can be AND-ed, OR-ed, NOR-ed, XOR-ed, or logicallycombined in other forms, to set more or fewer constraints or conditionson the user or driver, in terms of functions available to the user,regarding his mobile device, PDA, laptop, computer, GPS system,multimedia display, DVD player, CD or CD-ROM player, radio, cell ormobile phone, pager, walkie-talkie, computing device, communicationdevice, or any other device or appliance available as mobile or in thecar (or even limiting the functions of the car, such as limiting thegears on the gearbox or stick shift, stopping or slowing the engine,stopping the gas supply, turning off the radio, or similar functions inthe car). One can customize the conditions above, for example, one canset the following, as the condition (rule-based condition can bedownloaded automatically or pushed from a server maintained, e.g., by agovernment entity/agency):

IF

-   -   (The speed of the car is more than 3 miles per hour, AND (the        handbrake is not applied, OR the car engine is running, OR the        car is not in the “Parking” mode, OR the car key is in the        ignition OR activated remotely (for keyless ignition systems)))

THEN

-   -   (Disable the texting function in the phone,    -   AND send a message to the central location, informing the        parents,    -   AND turn off/disable the radio, DVD player, and TV in the car,    -   AND turn on the headlights on the car, automatically.)

Thus, any kind of condition and restriction/consequences can be appliedin the logic of the operation, as long as there is a sensor or device todetect that condition, and there is a switch or controller todisable/enable/control/adjust the outcome, equipment, or parameters. OneCPU, server, or central computer in the car (or remotely) can controland adjust all parameters and equipment, sending multiple signals andwarnings to different locations for various tasks and acknowledgements(as an example).

In one embodiment, the choices or options are all disabled, partiallydisabled, all enabled, partially enabled (e.g. disabling text, but stillenabling voice functions, or hands-free options), or time-delayed (forexample, after the car and/or engine stops (either or both, fordifferent embodiments), enabling the text functionality, delivering themessage, or turning on the telephone).

In one embodiment, the BLUETOOTH® (A wireless technology protocol),using a universal code, can be used for transmission and communicationbetween the devices and the telephone. The application can run in thecell or mobile phone, or alternatively, in a central place or server, asa remote location, for example. In one embodiment, the application canrun in the background, and checking periodically for the status, toactivate or deactivate some function(s)/option(s) or do some task(s). Inone embodiment, the telephone is a “smart” device, i.e. all or most ofthe decisions and processing units are in the handset, itself. In oneembodiment, the telephone is a “dumb” device, i.e. all or most of thedecisions and processing units are in the central location, e.g. on aserver, or at the headquarters, e.g. in a remote place, such as at thetelephone company. In one embodiment, the software or updates are pushedfrom carriers, telephone, car, rental, or service companies (orlocal/state/federal governments), to individual devices or telephones.In one embodiment, the user downloads the codes or execution software,using hash function or encryption, for security, from a web site or acentral place/server.

In one embodiment, the command or the signal from the processing unitforces the engine or car to stop, or put on the brakes for the car,slowly or immediately, or prevent/restrict texting or telephonefunctions, partially or fully (e.g. turn off the texting unit, or thephone altogether, on the first try, or on the second/third try, by theuser, for example, or restricting more on the subsequent tries, for thefunctionality of the phone or texting, as another example, whichrequires a counter to count the number of attempts).

In one embodiment, the system is in an enclosure which is tamper-proof.The state or the federal government can check the functionality of thesystem, on a yearly mandatory basis, so that nobody can open theenclosure or change any settings or parameters within that.

The ID/verification for a person and phone can be obtained from thephone, in one embodiment. In one embodiment, the ID of a person can comefrom a separate tag, driver's license, key chain, magnetic strip, RFID(passive or active), or smart card (or similar or conventionalmethod/source), while, as a separate (different) source, the telephoneID comes from the telephone (or yet another/third source).

In one embodiment, if the unit is functioning or malfunctioning, theindicator on the car shows to the user, using lights or LEDs, orsound/voice. The police can monitor the status of the unit, or if itfunctioning properly (e.g. if it was tampered with), using the sensorsor signals monitoring the doors, seals, or caps, on the box orenclosure, to find such a status, whenever the car goes for yearlyinspection or stopped for any traffic violation, in the close proximitywith the police detector or police car. This can be done using, forexample, a complete circuit going through the door of the disclosure.So, whenever somebody opens the disclosure, the circuit becomes open,and that can trigger a magnet/wire coil (that feeds from the samecircuit) to stop working, causing a metal rod or bar to move a certaindirection or drop, by gravity, after the magnet ceases its support orpull on the metal bar or rod, and also, causing some other circuitsending a signal, indicating such tampering and action, to a detector ora central location, such as police. Similar types of tamper-proofingand/or detection have been done by others, and we incorporate anyconventional tamper-proofing art here.

In one embodiment, the authorities or authorized personnel can checkwhether the transceivers are turned on by measuring residual signalpower levels around and in proximity to the vehicle.

In one embodiment, tamper proofing is applied to the software modulesrunning on the mobile device and/or localized unit. The tamper checkingis performed, for example, when connecting to the serviceprovider/carrier, by downloading a tamper checking software/code/scriptfrom the carrier to the mobile device. In one embodiment, the tamperchecking software when running on the mobile device checks the featurelimiting features of the mobile device (e.g., the triggering program) byuse of methods such as determining hash representation of the code andcomparing with that from the remote server.

In one embodiment, for the parents, the restriction can be higher thanthose imposed by the states or federal government, for the childrenunder 18, or above age 18, to drive the car, based on the age andexperience, as set by parents. This can also depend on the range ofdriving, distance from the house (e.g., determined by using GPS),mileage per day (e.g., by using a counter), time of day (morerestriction at night), maximum speed, and maximum weight for the cargofor the car. For example, the younger the driver, the more restrictionson the driver, and the less functionality of the telephone, in addition,to limiting the speed of the car, or at least, warning the kid orparents about the high speed (or recording those events with timestampfor future inspection by parents, for exceeding age-related speedlimitations or local speed limits).

The cars nowadays have a sensor, based on the weight or pressure, ortemperature, which can detect the presence of a person on a seat. In oneembodiment, this can be used for detection of the passengers, i.e. thenumber and positions. For example, if a kid (the driver of a car) has apassenger in front, then if that passenger is identified as aparent/guardian (e.g., based on biometrics or smart card), then he hasfewer restrictions, but if that person is not his parents, he will havemore restrictions on his telephone functionalities, compared to that ofdriving alone. In one embodiment, in order to identify the passengers,their mobile devices and their locations are recognized via the localtransceivers, the localized unit, and the mobile device(s). Based on theidentifications of the mobile devices (e.g., cellular telephone numbersor other identifying features such as SIMS), the identity of the holdersare determined. In one embodiment, this method is combined with otheridentification methods for additional checks.

The rules and restrictions can be updated crossing state lines orboundaries for local governments/cities, downloaded on a kiosks orterminals, remotely, in proximity of the kiosks or terminals (whilestopping or moving), by radio signals or magnetic/optical transmissionof data (or even cable connections, if the car is stopped to update fromthose kiosks or terminals). Those rules can also be updated at theyearly inspection stations by the local governments, for all cars.

In one embodiment, the busses and trucks have more restrictions thancars for texting or telephone functions. At dark or night, there aremore restrictions than during the daytime. In one embodiment, the familyplan for telephone company dictates the rules, or who can change them(rules and restrictions on the usage of phones), with some password orother ID verification techniques. In one embodiment, this system can beintegrated with GPS, satellite transmissions, and emergency roadservices, such as On-Star service. In one embodiment, the settings aredone at the factory, based on destination market, according to localrules.

In one embodiment, the following is disabled/enabled/modified, as onefeature or combinations:

-   -   keyboard,    -   text processing unit,    -   text display unit,    -   text storing unit,    -   text receiving,    -   text sending,    -   voice receiving, and/or    -   voice sending.

In one embodiment, the drunk driver detection, already on the market,can be combined with our system, to report sick, drunk, sleeping, ortexting driver, based on the breath analysis/chemical analysis, eyepatterns, blinking patterns, breathing patterns, and position of thehead for the driver, using face analysis and various pattern recognitionmethods in the market.

In one embodiment, if the driver receives the text, it willautomatically go to one of the passengers, or a designated one(s), basedon the identity, telephone ID or number, or the position of thepassenger in the car, or the combination of the above. These rules canbe predetermined, or set real-time, during driving, by one of thepassengers, for example.

In one embodiment, the system periodically searches/detects to see if itis within the range or not, to turn it back on again. For example, afterdisabling the text earlier, when the car is stopped, or the driver ortelephone is removed from the car (when the system detects such astatus), the system turns on the texting functions back on again, sothat the telephone is fully functional again.

In one embodiment, the presence/identity of the user is determined bytriangulation from multiple sensors, or multiple directive antennas, orRFIDs, or magnetic tags, or smart phones, or smart cards, or multipleantennas. In one embodiment, the face recognition or conventionalfeature/pattern recognition techniques are used for identification ofall passengers or driver.

In one embodiment, using multiple sensors, detectors, antennas, tags,reflectors, dishes, transmitters, or receivers, at different locations(in the car, boat, airplane, train, or other vehicles, for personal orcommercial use), one can determine the locations of the multipleusers/phones in a car (for example). The intensity measurement and/ordistance measurement are applied here.

In one embodiment, in each region of the car, there is a set of sensorsor transmitters, to detect the presence of a passenger on that area orseat. That will give a binary (Yes/No) answer for the “presence”variable for each seat. This way the passengers for each seat aredetermined locally. In one embodiment, the passengers for each seat aredetermined globally, from all the sensors in the car, using thedistances or ratios, for example, for intensities, to determine who isin what seat, or which seats are unoccupied.

In one embodiment, 2 kinds of triangulation methods are used, each orboth together: (1) based on the relative intensities, (2) based on thedelays and timings. When one has the extra points of reference (orredundant antennas or detectors/transmitters/receivers or directionalantennas or array of antennas), the extra information can be used tointerpolate or extrapolate the other data, to check the validity of theother data, or to average the data, to reduce errors or get a betterlocation or relative position information.

In one embodiment, the microprocessor or controller periodically readsthe decoded sequence from the receiver/decoder, and compares it with astored code. If the decoded code matches a predefined correct code, themicroprocessor or controller performs one or more of the followingoperations:

-   -   Inhibits the display from displaying any sent texts.    -   Inhibits texting operation, by disabling the texting function of        the mobile device.    -   Sends a signal to SMSC to withhold sending text messages to the        mobile device, until further notice, and meanwhile, to store the        incoming text messages, as one option, if the user desires.

As soon as the mobile device is out of transmitter range and receiverfails to detect the transmitted signal, the microprocessor or controllerresets mobile device's texting operation back to normal.

In one embodiment of the invention, the transmitter encodes apredetermined sequence and transmits it through inductive antenna totransceiver unit located in front of steering wheel of the vehicle, thevehicle ceiling over driver's head, or the dashboard section in front ofthe driver. As the mobile device comes within the reception range oftransceiver, transceiver receives the transmitted signal throughinductive antenna, decodes the transmitted sequence in the decoderblock, and after verification of the decoded sequence, for example, bycomparing with a replica of the sequence in its memory, generates alogic 1 bit, to logically AND it with ignition and not-park signals, toenable a transmitter. The transmitter encodes a second predeterminedsequence, different from the first predetermined sequence, and transmitsit through inductive antenna block to transceiver. Receiver block intransceiver decodes the second sequence, which in turn is read bymicroprocessor/controller, to disable the display/ keyboard, for theuser.

Another embodiment employs BLUETOOTH® (A wireless technology protocol)technology operating either over a dedicated channel or a plurality ofchannels. A transmitter transmitting a dedicated code is installed, asin previous embodiments above, within the steering wheel of vehicle orin another location in the vehicle, in the close vicinity of thedriver's seat. Similar to the previous embodiments, when a mobile phonedevice comes within the reception range of the BLUETOOTH® (A wirelesstechnology protocol) transmitter, the BLUETOOTH® (A wireless technologyprotocol) receiver of the mobile phone device receives the transmittedcode, decodes it, and subsequent to verification, initiates a commandsequence in the microprocessor or controller, to disable textingoperation, and in addition, to send a message, through the controlchannel to SMSC, to store and withhold sending the messages destined forthat mobile phone device.

In one embodiment, where the speed information is not directly availablefrom the vehicle, the speed dependent rules related to the featuremodification may be applied by directly/indirectly estimating the speedof the vehicle. For example, in one embodiment, a GPS or a triangulationtechnique is used to estimate the location of the vehicle (e.g., usingthe mobile device being carries in the vehicle) at various times (e.g.,sampled every 10 seconds). The speed of the car and/or the direction(vector) is determined by comparing the consecutive location of thevehicle and elapsed time between their sampling using known methods. Inone embodiment, the sampling time is reduced if the speed increases orvariation in speed along the consecutive points are beyond a threshold.

As one embodiment, FIG. 14 shows the inputs from 4 modules going to theAction controller module, with a possible feedback from the Actioncontroller module to those 4 modules. The Telephone and users locationand ID module is shown in FIG. 16 in more details, as one example. TheRule priority and combination logic module is shown in FIG. 15 in moredetails, as one example. The Features ranges module is shown in FIG. 17in more details, as one example. There is an optional Manual control andoverride module, which a user can interfere, change parameters, or stopthe operation at different authority levels, if desired, as an example.

FIG. 16 shows different rules and parameters from different modulescontributing to the Rule priority and combination logic module. Priorityrules describes who and how an entity can overturn another entity orrules, or set the rules. So, in one embodiment, it is a priority listingand ranking, of all members and entities, with higher ranksoutweigh/overturn/veto/cancel/modify the lower ranks' votes in thelisting. It can also, in one embodiment, include a voting scheme forentities of the same rank, in which a majority, e.g. 51 percent, orsuper-majority, e.g. 75 percent, can win/vote, collectively as a group.In one embodiment, it specifies which entity can change what parametersand rules, in what condition, and with what credentials. For example, aparent showing the correct identification card, to establish the nameand identity, and referring to a database, showing the relationshipbetween parents and kids (and their names), on the weekends, can/has theauthority to set the parameters and constraints for the driving of thekids and their telephone usages, during/for the following week.

In FIG. 16, Conditional rules can be, in one embodiment, IF statementsor UNLESS statements, such as:

-   -   IF the time is after 9 pm,    -   THEN the telephone voice function is deactivated;    -   UNLESS the call comes from the parents cell number or home        number.

The Combinational Rules can be any logical combinations, such as thefollowing, as one condition:

-   -   ((a OR b OR c) AND (d XOR e)),    -   where a, b, c, d, and e are the statements, such as:    -   “The road is dark.”    -   or    -   “The road is wet.” (e.g., wet and slippery, due to rain)

Federal government rules can be set up to override local rules, and viceversa, according to the laws enforced. Contract-based rules can comedirectly from a contract, specifying the time of restrictions, the rangeof restrictions, distances, and other parameters, which is spelled outin a contract between a business owner and the hired drivers for histrucks, as an example.

Emergency condition rules may override all others, in terms of policecalling or 911-calls, or any forward calls, showing the Context orContent flag (as a header information) as being the emergency type.

Sensors to measure the temperature and humidity/rain, inside and outsideof the car, or current information/forecasts from web sites or weatherchannel can be fed into the Environment-based module, to find thecorresponding rule(s) for that specific weather condition, as anexample, and supply that rule(s) to Rule priority and combination logicmodule, as shown in FIG. 15, as an input.

In FIG. 16, different methods are used to verify the identity of aperson or show the presence of the person, as the driver, passenger, orother users. The location of a person can be detected by antennas,reflection, transmission, detectors, or receivers, and analysis of therelative timing and intensity, to locate a person in the car or onspecific seat, e.g. before biometric identifications. All of theobtained information is then supplied to the Telephone and userslocation and ID module.

In FIG. 17, for each function and feature on the phone, for example, forn features (going from 1 to n, where n being a positive integer), wehave the description of the feature/function, such as text messagessending or receiving. We have also dependencies, e.g. “text functiondisabling” which has a relationship with “disabling text messagereceiving”. That is, “text function disabling” is a superset of“disabling text message receiving”. That is, whenever the text functionis disabled, the text message receiving is also disabled, but thereverse is not always true.

In FIG. 17, whenever an object comes within a range to trigger thefunction to be modified/disabled, called Range ofModification/Deactivation, or R_(D), which (in general) may not beexactly the same as the range for the reverse situation, to make thesame function restored/activated again, within some range, or Range ofActivation, or R_(A). (The activation or deactivation can be interpretedboth for enablement and disablement, respectively, or vice versa.)However, for most cases, the two ranges/radiuses/distances are the same,with the same boundary/border/threshold, for the activation anddeactivation process to be triggered, i.e., R_(A)=R_(D).

In one embodiment, some or all the information from the modules abovewill be input to the Features ranges module, as shown in FIG. 17.

In FIG. 18, we have Action Controller Module, which may increase,decrease, or modify the scope, the number of available functions,functionalities, choice list, or menu list of the possible actions for agiven device. Alternatively, it may forward the function or task toanother entity or user, or re-assign the task(s), partially or fully,e.g. transferring the text message intended for the driver to apassenger in the car, i.e. to a second phone, as a forward message, sothat the passenger can respond/listen/talk to the phone/textmessage/voice message, in real-time, or as stored message, with anoptional copy stored for the driver for his later review, with an optionfor the driver to also review the response of the passenger, as well, interms of recorded voice or text, at a later time, e.g. when he is notdriving anymore, and his telephone is activated again.

This can be extended to a conference call for multiple users andmultiple drivers/multiple passengers, all at the same conference call,using voice and/or text.

In FIG. 18, Action Controller Module can control engine speed, carspeed, car acceleration (e.g. amount of gas and air supplied), the maxor min gear functional (on gear box), or amount of current or voltagesupplied (e.g. for electric cars); equipment in the car, such as sunroofand radio (e.g. on/off switch, and volume for sound adjustment, based ona maximum level); type of functions available for mobile devices andcommunication/personal/computing gadgets, for different users atdifferent locations and with different responsibilities, such as driverand passenger(s), in front and back seats, for example.

In FIG. 18, Action Controller Module can control type and method ofdelivery, plus the frequency of delivery, of messages, notifications,and warnings, in addition to who gets it, in what order. For example,Action Controller Module sends a warning message to a father, everyminute, or in higher frequency later on, with a special ring and followup recorded voice message, first, about the receiving text message by ateenage driver (his son). Then, later, it would send a second message tohis mother (of the driver), with text message, only, every 5 minutes,warning about this incident, with no or different ring tone. There is alist of recipients, with the order of receiving, in one embodiment. Inone embodiment, there is a forwarding list, and there is another listfor when/in case the father and the mother cannot answer the phone, asthe emergency backup numbers, or the list of people to contact later on.

In one embodiment, biometrics or other types of identification is usedto identify the driver (e.g., by using a finger print scanning devicelocated at or near the steering wheel, ignition button or othercontrols). Based on the driver's identification, information such asrules/configurations are queried from a database(s) in one embodiment.The associated mobile devices are identified (e.g., by their servicecarrier and cellular telephone number) based on the driver'sidentification, e.g., by querying the identification database(s). In oneembodiment, the gathered information is provided to an Action Controllermodule to effectuate modifications on features/functionalities ofvehicle and/or the mobile device(s) based-on rules and environmentalcontext.

One can use a separate code for personal identification of the user, asan example. Each telephone can have a universal or a unique code foridentification of the telephone. The user code and telephone codes canbe added or combined. In one embodiment, the directional antennas areused, for detection of the location of the users or phones. In oneembodiment, the messages are re-routed or stored in a remote place. Inone embodiment, multiple points/transceivers of the car are used forsending signals, and also multiple points are used for receiving thesignals or reflections of the signals. In one embodiment, the softwareand instructions/codes are stored on a magnetic or storage media, suchas hard drive or memory stick, to be run by a computing device orprocessor, to implement the methods and steps taught in this disclosure.

In one embodiment, the signal or task or message is forwarded tomultiple users, who may in the car, or may be outside of the car, awayfrom the driver of the car, e.g. in another car. In one embodiment, forposition detection, for user or phone, one can use a beacon using sound,light, or flashing light, or tags using RFID, to find and identify theobjects. The range for detection can be expressed as length, e.g. feetor meter, or as voltage or current for the threshold of the detectedsignal, as detected by the detectors, sensors, or receivers, based ontheir prior calibrations, so that it can be mapped to correspondingdistances, in terms of meter or feet, for the thresholds, for thedetection purposes, for users or phones.

In one embodiment, GPS is used to find the relative or absolutepositions of objects. In one embodiment, one can turn off or on adevice, such as phone or a module in the phone, or with a timer, withdelay, or gradually reduce the voltage or current to zero, e.g. using aslide or variable resistor. In one embodiment, the monitoring is doneusing a continuous or periodic schedule, triggered by a clock, forexample, or manually, by a user or third party, so that if the phone isin/out of the range, or crosses the boundaries, it can be detected inits new status and position.

In one embodiment, RF communication is used between components, or anyother parts of spectrum. In one embodiment, the restriction on speed ofcar is applied for the young driver. In one embodiment, thenotifications can go from the reverse directions as well, based onteachings above, i.e. from device A to B, as an example, rather thandevice B to A, as in the teaching above, or going through a proxy,sending a notification to the server or central location, e.g. forstatus/location of the phone, e.g. notification that if the phone is inthe range, or if it is outside the range.

In one embodiment, a time difference between 2 or more reflectedsignals, with respect to a base time of another signal, e.g. originalsignal, can be used to find the time delay, or distance differencesbetween different objects, based on the speed of light or sound, as thesource, to pinpoint different objects in the car, and find/independentlyverify the position of users and phones.

In one embodiment, the features to be disabled or modified/limited arespeed dependent (i.e. the speed of the vehicle), or based on the age ofthe driver. In one embodiment, the expiration time or extension timeperiods for modifying a feature can be speed dependent, for example, fordifferent ranges of speed, different ranges/classes of features aredisabled/modified, e.g. for low speed range, sending SMS is disabled,and at higher speed range, receiving SMS is disabled, as well.

In one embodiment, Multimedia messaging service (MMS), movies, video,songs, lectures, books, text, and recorded voices can also be applied tothis teaching here. In one embodiment, a computer readable media is usedto store the data or executable codes to run the software for theimplementation of the methods and steps of this invention.

In one embodiment, when a user plugs the phone to a battery charger at avehicle, the mobile device recognizes the power plug attachment eventand inquiries the user to indicate whether the current location is in avehicle (on mobile device user interface or on the car user interface,for example), and/or whether the user intends to drive. If the userindicates YES, the mobile device modifies the features, such asdisabling SMS and/or a message is sent to SMSC or a remote service towithhold messages and/or calls. In one embodiment, the mobile deviceuser interface does not let the user proceed, until the user answers theinquiry, or the power cord is unplugged.

In one embodiment, once the mobile device receives a message indicatingtotal shut-down from the localized transceiver, it turns itself off,after e.g. verifying the associate ID with the transceiver. For example,this is used in a theater setting, to reduce the unwanted/disturbingcalls during presentation.

In one embodiment, instead of the SMS messages at SMSC, the SMS messagesare stored on the mobile device, and the response that the user cannotrespond in person is sent to the sender. In one embodiment, SMSC sendssimilar message to the sender, when storing and not forwarding themessages to the mobile device, due to modification of the feature on themobile device. In one embodiment, the SMSC keeps track of the enablementand modification times of the mobile device and the senders, so that itwould send the automatic response to a sender only once, if the featurehas not since been enabled. This prevents a possible infinite loop ofmessages between disabled senders and receivers.

In one embodiment, when the modifying feature is receiving telephonecalls, special answering reply is used at the answering service, toindicate to the caller that, e.g. “The callee is currently driving, andcannot accept a phone call.”. In one embodiment, once the mobile devicefeatures is being modified, the mobile device (or localized unit) sendsa message to a service at the telephone service provider with a codeindicating e.g. to modify the reply message, in answering service and/orhold incoming calls and direct them straight to the answering service.In one embodiment, the telephone service sends a message to the mobiledevice, indicating that a call went straight to the answering service,e.g. indicating to the user with a special audio tone/sound.

In one embodiment, when the modifying feature relates to phone calls ormessaging, and a car is equipped with hands-free telephone and messagingfeatures, then messages and/or calls are forwarded to the hands-freedevice, for example, by forwarding the messages/calls from the serviceprovider/carrier, to the phone number or SIP address or otheridentifications, associated with the hands-free device.

In one embodiment, when modifying a feature on a mobile device, if a 2ndmobile device is available, the limited functionality is used on the 2ndmobile device, by forwarding calls and/or messages to the 2nd mobiledevice, directly, from the limited mobile device, e.g. via acommunication link, such as BLUETOOTH® (A wireless technology protocol).In one embodiment, when the limitation is lifted, the on-going callsremain connected on the 2nd mobile device, for continuity, by e.g.continue to forward voice data from the 1st mobile device to the 2nd. Onthe completion of the phone call, the new calls would not be forwardedto the 2nd mobile device. In one embodiment, the limited feature mobiledevice recognizes other mobile devices, e.g. in a piconet, establishedvia BLUETOOTH® (A wireless technology protocol), and queries apreconfigured list of trusted mobile devices to determine whether thecalls or messages can be forwarded to the 2nd mobile device. In oneembodiment, there is a priority settings used to determine which mobiledevice among available ones in the piconet should get the forwardedmessages/calls. In one embodiment, the forwarding number/person'sname/ID, corresponding to the 2nd mobile phone, is entered/specifiedon-demand in real-time, by the user or authority, e.g. on 1st mobiledevice, or from a car/vehicle. In one embodiment, the proximity (thenearest phone to the driver, or the closest passenger detected, forexample, based on the RF power level, or based on location determinationby other methods, mentioned here in this disclosure) is used toidentify/assign the 2nd mobile phone, for this purpose.

In one embodiment, the sound goes from top speakers in the car fortelephone voice or music to speakers on the foot-level, underneath, ortransfer the sound to speakers on the back seats, to focus/de-focus andalert the user or listener/driver about the telephone, or put more focuson the road, to prevent accidents.

In one embodiment, the smart cards or tags/magnetic IDs are read by areader, in contact or remotely, to identify the person, or role, e.g.parent, based on a connected database, e.g., to show the relationshipsbetween people, e.g. names of children and parents, connected/referredto, in the database, or otherwise, found on the smart cards or tags ofthe parent or child, e.g. mentioning the ID card or number/code for theother person, i.e. the child or parent, respectively, pointing to theother person, as a method of verification or locating the other person,to activate the rules and proximity conditions, e.g. when the passengeris the parent, and the driver is the kid, in which case somerestrictions on the kid is relaxed, or e.g. the calls are forwarded tothe parent's phone automatically. In one embodiment, when two cards arein the vicinity of each other, they signal each other, to recognize eachother (having antennas, and also power source, at least on one of them),for the conditions mentioned above, to recognize that the parent issitting next to the kid/driver.

Wherever a vehicle is used in this disclosure, the teaching may begeneralized to other enclosures such as train, airplane, boat,metro-rail, bus, trucks, air-borne or sea-borne vessel, or air-trafficcontroller or un-manned airplane controller seating areas.

The tasks in this disclosure can be implemented/performed bysoftware/hardware/firmware or a combination, in a local, central, orremote location, partially or fully.

This invention can apply to any functions for any mobile device. It doesnot have to be limited to a vehicle or car. The driver can begeneralized as the user. The passenger can be generalized as the 2^(nd)class of users. The parents can be generalized as authority, police,owner, boss, or government.

All data information including executable codes/scripts/programs/tasksare stored in one or more storages in various modules and systemsdescribed in this disclosure. In addition, the systems and modules havevarious processing units/CPUs to execute/run such executables. Thecommunication and data transfers are performed viawireless/wired/optical/sound/voice medium and devices. For example,using voice recognition and pattern recognition devices can be used torecognize an individual's voice or sounds (e.g., notes, whistles)commands or statements to for example initiate an event to be performedby various devices and processes running on those devices (e.g., SMSforwarding).

A system, an apparatus, a device, or an article of manufacturecomprising one of the following items or features mentioned above is anexample of this invention. A method comprising one of the followingsteps, features, or items mentioned above is an example of thisinvention. Any variations of the above teaching are also intended to becovered by this patent application.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A local device of a vehicle for restoringone or more functions or available choices for a mobile communicationdevice, said local device comprising: a features ranges module selectedfrom a group consisting of (i) software stored in a non-transitorycomputer-readable recording medium executable by a processor of saidlocal device, (ii) hardware, (iii) firmware, and (iv) a combinationthereof, and configured, when the processor executes the software,and/or the hardware or the firmware performs logic determination, toprovide a first description and a first dependency relationship for afirst function for said mobile communication device, provide a seconddescription and a second dependency relationship for a second functionfor said mobile communication device, provide a first activation rangevalue and a first deactivation range value for said first function in afirst memory unit, and provide a second activation range value and asecond deactivation range value for said second function in a secondmemory unit; and an action controller module selected from a groupconsisting of (i) software stored in a non-transitory computer-readablerecording medium executable by the processor of said local device, (ii)hardware, (iii) firmware, and (iv) a combination thereof, andconfigured, when the processor executes the software associated withsaid action controller module, and/or the hardware or the firmwareassociated with said action controller module performs logicdetermination, to receive location information of said mobilecommunication device from a location detection module, modify a firstset of one or more functions or available choices for said mobilecommunication device, based on said location information of said mobilecommunication device, said first deactivation range value, and saidsecond deactivation range value, and restore a second set of one or morefunctions or available choices for said mobile communication device,based on said location information of said mobile communication device,said first activation range value, and said second activation rangevalue.
 2. The local device as recited in claim 1, wherein said secondfunction is dependent on said first function.
 3. The local device-asrecited in claim 2, wherein said second function is modified based onmodification of said first function.
 4. The local device-as recited inclaim 1, wherein said location detection module comprises an antenna,sensor, detector, reflector, or receiver.
 5. The local device as recitedin claim 1, wherein said second set of one or more functions oravailable choices for said mobile communication device is a subset ofsaid first set of one or more functions or available choices for saidmobile communication device.
 6. A local device of a vehicle fornotification regarding one or more functions or available choices for amobile communication device, said local device comprising: a featuresranges module selected from a group consisting of (i) software stored ina non-transitory computer-readable recording medium executable by aprocessor of said local device, (ii) hardware, (iii) firmware, and (iv)a combination thereof, and configured, when the processor executes thesoftware, and/or the hardware or the firmware performs logicdetermination, to provide a first activation range value and a firstdeactivation range value for a first function of a first mobilecommunication device in a first memory unit, and provide a secondactivation range value and a second deactivation range value for asecond function of said first mobile communication device in a secondmemory unit; and an action controller module selected from a groupconsisting of (i) software stored in a non-transitory computer-readablerecording medium executable by the processor of said local device, (ii)hardware, (iii) firmware, and (iv) a combination thereof, andconfigured, when the processor executes the software associated withsaid action controller module, and/or the hardware or the firmwareassociated with said action controller module performs logicdetermination, to receive location information of said first mobilecommunication device from a location detection module, modify saidsecond function of said first mobile communication device, based on saidlocation information of said first mobile communication device and saidsecond deactivation range value, communicate a status of said firstmobile communication device to a second communication device, and sendor receive communications via said first mobile communication device,based on said first function of said first mobile communication device.7. The local device as recited in claim 6, wherein said status indicateslocation of said first mobile communication device.
 8. The local deviceas recited in claim 6, wherein said status indicates said modificationof said second function of said first mobile communication device. 9.The local device as recited in claim 6, wherein said status indicatesavailability status of said first function of said first mobilecommunication device.
 10. The local device as recited in claim 6,wherein said action controller module is further configured to modifysaid first function of said first mobile communication device, based onsaid location information of said first mobile communication device andsaid first deactivation range value.
 11. The local device as recited inclaim 6, wherein said action controller module is further configured tomodify functionality related to one or more of following: keyboard, textprocessing, text display, text storing, text receiving, text sending,voice receiving, forwarding message, or voice sending.
 12. The localdevice as recited in claim 6, wherein said action controller module isfurther configured to send multiple notifications to a predeterminedperson, entity, or device periodically.
 13. The local device as recitedin claim 6, wherein said action controller module is further configuredto send multiple notifications to a predetermined person, entity, ordevice at different frequencies or time intervals.
 14. The local deviceas recited in claim 6, wherein said action controller module is furtherconfigured to send multiple notifications to multiple persons, entities,or devices based on a predetermined list.
 15. A local device of avehicle for communicating a message regarding one or more functions oravailable choices for a mobile communication device, said local devicecomprising: a features ranges module selected from a group consisting of(i) software stored in a non-transitory computer-readable recordingmedium executable by a processor of said local device, (ii) hardware,(iii) firmware, and (iv) a combination thereof, and configured, when theprocessor executes the software associated with said action controllermodule, and/or the hardware or the firmware associated with said actioncontroller module performs logic determination, to provide a firstactivation range value and a first deactivation range value for a firstfunction of a first mobile communication device in a first memory unit,and provide a second activation range value and a second deactivationrange value for a second function of said first mobile communicationdevice in a second memory unit; and an action controller module selectedfrom a group consisting of (i) software stored in a non-transitorycomputer-readable recording medium executable by the processor of saidlocal device, (ii) hardware, (iii) firmware, and (iv) a combinationthereof, and configured, when the processor executes the software,and/or the hardware or the firmware performs logic determination, toreceive location information of said first mobile communication devicefrom a location detection module, mark said second function of saidfirst mobile communication device for modification, based on saidlocation information of said first mobile communication device and saidsecond deactivation range value, in case of a usage or attempted usageof said second function of said first mobile communication device by auser, communicate a message or warning about said usage or attemptedusage of said second function of said first mobile communication device,and send or receive communications via said first mobile communicationdevice, based on said first function of said first mobile communicationdevice.
 16. The local device as recited in claim 15, wherein saidmessage or warning is communicated to said user, said user's parent,said user's employer, an authority, police, or a designated entity orperson.
 17. The local device as recited in claim 15, wherein saidmessage or warning is stored in a computing device or a memory device.18. The local device as recited in claim 15, wherein said message orwarning comprises time-stamp or number of occurrences of said usage orattempted usage.
 19. The local device as recited in claim 15, whereinsaid message or warning is communicated via one or more of following:text, telephone call, ring, audio, multimedia, movies, video, siren,vibration, light, flashing light, predetermined message, or customizedmessage.